There are many documents of a long history in South America. Many native peoples had been developing culture and civilizations for thousands of years. Scattered around South America are indicators of many different tribes of native peoples. Bolivia is one of the countries with a long history of human impact. One of the most famous native people, known as The Incas, was found to have settled in Bolivia long before the modern-day. Because of this, the locations of Bolivia’s largest cities have a long history of development. Some cities were developed in the 1700s when Spanish conquistadors came to explore South America. The long cultural development in Bolivia has become important for the Bolivian’s identity. Ancient culture and modern Spanish culture collide in Bolivia.
Bolivia Facts
1. Some of The Highest Points in South America are in Bolivia
Known as the highlands in South America, Bolivia contains The Andes Mountains. These mountains are some of the highest points in the entire continent. About one-third of Bolivia is covered by mountain ranges. The lack of water sources and the mountainous terrain causes difficulties for agriculture. Bolivia depends on its neighboring country for many of their produce needs.
The variety of mountain ranges has led Bolivia’s economy to find success in mining specialization. Bolivia’s land holds many natural resources that can be mined. Many common natural resources, such as coal, can be found in the mines, but many extremely rare gems are found in this country, a fun fact about Bolivia. The presence of huge mountain ranges does not stop Bolivians from finding success in the industry. The land covered by The Andes Mountains is also where many of Bolivia’s largest cities are found. Two of the highest cities in the world are found in Bolivia.
2. Experience Winter and Summer in One Day
Bolivia is a landlocked country, with no immediate access to the ocean. One of the most important functions of large bodies of water is to maintain land temperatures. The water holds heat from the day time and helps emit warm air in the night. Since Bolivia does not have access to large bodies of water, the temperature in this country can vary.
The altitude of the country also contributed to changes in the temperature. In the summertime, Bolivia can be very warm with tropical weather. However, even in the summer nights, some areas of Bolivia can reach freezing temperatures. Visitors need to make sure they bring their T-shirts and their winter jackets when they visit this country, an interesting fact about Bolivia.
3. Llamas Have Become a Source of Country Culture
Llamas are a unique animal found in a few countries in South America. They are especially common in Bolivia. Llamas are in the same family as camels, with strong legs that can help them travel long distances and maneuver all terrains. Llamas are different from their camel cousins because they have long fur that keeps them very warm when Bolivia reaches its coldest. Llamas are used to living high up in the mountains along with the Bolivian people.
Bolivians have been using llamas for hundreds of years. Many products such as clothing, food, and leather comes from llamas. Llamas have even been used for scientific advancement. Bolivia was also one of the first counties in the world to access electricity, which was generated from using llama dung. Because of the many important uses of llamas, Bolivia has been documenting llamas within writing and artwork for the country’s long history. Countries from around the world rely on Bolivia and other South American countries to export llama fur to make exotic and warm clothing.
4. A Majority of the Population Are Native Bolivians
A feature that is not common in South America is the existence of the native peoples. Due to wars with the Spanish explorers when South America was being colonized, many of the native groups were defeated and removed from their homelands. In Bolivia, decedents of the native Bolivians from hundreds or thousands of years ago still live on. Two-thirds of the population of Bolivia is people with indigenous heritage, an interesting fact about Bolivia.
Bolivian family lines go back many generations. These families have been in the country for a multitude of years. Families have seen the changes of South America through colonization and modernization, but still hold many of their traditions and culture true today.
5. Almost Half of the Species of Animals and Plants on Earth Are Found in Bolivia
Due to Bolivia’s large size and various terrains, many animals are native to Bolivia. The various climates and weather throughout the year provide many animals with a comfortable environment to survive. The forests and mountains are home to some of the rarest animals in the world. In Bolivia, people need to be safe from large predators like pumas or jaguars that roam the land. There are over 10,000 native plant species found in Bolivia. The variety of plants and animals make Bolivia a popular tourist destination for those interested in nature.
6. There Are Over 30 Spoken Languages in This Country
Mentioned before, Bolivia is home to many indigenous people whose families have been residents of the country for thousands of years. Because of this, there are many dialects and ancient languages passed down through generations. These languages may not be widely spoken in the modern-day, but there are still communities that use a variety of languages. Spanish is the most spoken language in Bolivia, but some regions may have specific dialects unique to a small area, a fun Bolivia fact.
Conclusion
Bolivian culture and history are some of the longest standing evidence of native South American tribes. These tribes are responsible for civilization development and innovation in the Americas. The families that inhabit Bolivia today are decedents of these great peoples. The modern culture in Bolivia pays respect to their ancestors who are studied and respected around the world. Bolivia is home to a wide range of natural beauty due to its many climates. A variety of foods from plants and animals are unique customs to Bolivia due to the access to so many natural providers.
I hope that this article on Bolivia facts was helpful! If you are interested, visit the Country Facts Page!
