Encyclopedias
Encyclopedias are often a good place to begin researching a topic. In addition to the information in the entries themselves, you will often find brief lists of further books and articles to use for deeper research into your topic.
Encyclopedia of Latin American History and CultureOnline. Contains over 5,700 entries on Latin American history, politics, culture, politics, environment, literature and the arts. Includes many photographs and references.- Encyclopedia of contemporary Latin American and Caribbean culturesPrint. Contains more than 4000 entries on all aspects of the contemporary cultures of Latin America and the Caribbean. Covers more than 40 regions from 1920 to the present day. "Culture" is broadly defined to include food, sport, religion, television, transport, alongside architecture, dance, film, literature, music and sculpture.
General Background Information on Countries
Here are a few databases that give good background information about countries of the world. Some of them have a focus on useful information for business travelers, but should still be useful for general information on countries.
- CIA World FactbookProvides country information such as history, population, government, economy, geography, communications, transportation, military, and transnational issues. Good for background information on Latin American countries.
- Country InsightsContains country facts and cultural information on the countries of the world. Intercultural issues may include: Conversations, Communication Styles, Displays of Emotion,Dress, Punctuality, and Formality, Stereotypes, and more. Please note that some information is from a Canadian perspective.
- CountryWatchOffers a political overview, economic overview, cultural information, investment climate, environmental overview, and more.
Europa World PlusProvides in-depth country information, including history, industries, economy, politics, statistical data, and more.
Europa World Plus