Free Cultural Differences Among Hispanic Countries Essay Example

Many Latin American countries share similarities with their mother country Spain. A large number of these countries, including Mexico, Guatemala, Peru, and the like, have people who speak Spanish as their native language. These countries adopted the Hispanic culture as a result of the Spaniards arriving in their countries and making contact with the Indians and the indigenous population of these regions. Thus, Hispanic countries share many cultural similarities with each other, such as language, religion, and population, but there are many cultural differences in the lifestyle, food, festivals, holiday celebrations, religious rituals, music, and family values.
Since I grew up in two different Hispanic countries, Spain and Colombia, I have personally experienced the differences between the cultures of these two countries. The culture of Spain is different from the culture of Colombia because both countries have distinct history, geography, political structure, economy, and population demographics. One of the most important factors is the difference between the etiquette, manners, and behavior of Spaniards and Colombians. For example, Spaniards generally have a colder demeanor while Columbians are friendly, approachable, and hospitable. Also, Columbians are more likely to engage strangers in conversation while Spaniards generally keep to themselves.
In Latin America, majority of the countries share cultural similarities with their neighboring countries, such as celebrating the same festivals. However, each country has its own distinct parade. One of the most popular parades in Latin America is the Carnaval de Rio in Brazil, followed closely by the Fair of the Flowers in Medellin, Colombia, and the Diablos of Danzantes in Venezuela. On the other hand, Spain celebrates Festival of Cadiz and the Festival of San Fermín, both of which have been celebrated for many decades.
One of the most important aspects of a culture is its cuisine. Latin American cuisine varies diversely across the different countries, as each country has its own special way to prepare the food. For instance, the tamale (a traditional Hispanic food) in Spain tastes different from the one made in Mexico. Also, the most popular food in Spain is the paella, a rice dish that is popular worldwide. On the other hand, Colombian and Brazilian food is more colonial in nature, as food is prepared and cooked in wood burning clay ovens. Although it takes a long time to cook, it gives the food a unique taste.
Hence, although the Hispanic countries are culturally similar to each other because of their shared colonial past, there are certain differences in the culture, shaped by the distinct characteristics of each country. Also, majority of the Hispanic countries have cultures and traditions that are the remnant of the past times. Since these traditions still enjoy widespread popularity, it can be said that Hispanic countries have safely guarded their customs and the cultural traditions are not in the danger of being lost.
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