What Was South America Called Before?

South America is one of the seven continents that make up the world. However, many people are unaware of what the continent was called before it was named South America. The name South America was not always used to refer to the region, and its history is quite interesting.

Before the arrival of the Europeans and the subsequent colonization of the continent, South America was known by various names. Different indigenous groups gave various names to the continent, each with its distinct meaning. In this blog post, we will discuss the different names used to describe South America before it became known as we know it today.

The Land of Fire and Mountains

One of the earliest names used to refer to South America was “the land of fire and mountains.” The term was coined by the native inhabitants of the region, who believed that the land was home to many active volcanoes emitting smoke and flames. Their belief was reinforced by the fact that many of the Andean mountains were volcanic in origin.

The New World

When Christopher Columbus arrived in the region in 1492, he believed that he had discovered a new world. He named the newly discovered land America, in honor of the Italian explorer Amerigo Vespucci. Initially, North and South America were referred to as the New World, a term popularized by Columbus himself. However, over time, the term became specifically associated with North America, and South America had to acquire a new name.

The Land of the Amazons

Another ancient name used to describe South America was “The Land of the Amazons.” The indigenous tribes who inhabited the Amazon rainforests were primarily composed of women who were skilled in hunting and warfare. Europeans gave the region this name during the seventeenth century, believing that the Amazons were descendants of the mythical Greek warriors.

The Southern Continent

Before the name South America was adopted everywhere, many cartographers, explorers and geographers simply referred to the region as the Southern Continent. Their decision to name it so was inspired by its location, being the southernmost part of the Americas.

Conclusion

In conclusion, South America was known by different names before it acquired its current name. The terms were coined by people who inhabited or visited the region, each with its unique meaning. Understanding the history of the continent and its various names is essential in appreciating its rich culture, heritage, and diversity.

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