Through the twin themes of the environment and development, Brad Jokisch introduces students to the regions of Latin American and the Caribbean through a concise, comprehensive, and cohesive overview. Designed for courses in either geography or Latin American Studies, this text covers the physical geography, environmental hazards, and a concise history of the region, along with treatment of economic issues-including China's role-urbanization, population trends, and international migration. Regional chapters on Brazil, Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean, the Andes, and the Southern Cone ensure that students understand the distinct areas of Latin America as well as the region as a whole. Key features include: Extensive maps, figures, and tables to help students visualize the material Chapter opening learning objectives and key terms lists to help organize important concepts End-of-chapter conclusions and summary points and a glossary to aid in studying Excellent treatment of current research from geography and across the social sciences to reinforce the state of the field A key case study chapter on Amazonian deforestation and development In-depth analysis of the commodity boom, the Pink Tide, the rise of China, certification programs, and the illicit drug trade