Lesson 17: Mining in South America
April 1, 2026
Review:
- Exam 2 Results
- Research and Presentation assignment – select a topic today!
Presentation:
- Geography of South America – Map Quiz
- Mining is a major part of Latin America’s economy
- World Silver Production
- #1 Mexico, #3 Peru, #5 Chile, #7 Bolivia
- Mining in Cerro Rico (Bolivia): The Mountain that Eats Men (BBC, 23:06)
- Copper Mining in Chile
- Codelco – largest producer of Copper in the world
- 2010 Copper Mine Accident and Rescue
- World Silver Production
- Lithium Triangle
- Location – Salt Flats – intersection of Chile, Argentina, Bolivia
- Lithium
- Essential element for manufacturing rechargeable batteries
- Huge and growing market: Consumer electronics, EVs
- Demand rising, Prices rising
- The True Cost of Lithium Mining (Business Insider, 15:44)
- How can Latin America benefit from the Lithium “boom”?
- Nationalize or Privatize
- Foreign Investment
- Value-add industry development
Activity:
- Meet in small groups to discuss your research and presentation assignment
- Gather ideas, compare notes, make plans
- Select a topic
- Confirm today
Assignment:
- Prepare your presentations for next week
- Recommended (but optional):