Bolivia

Bolivia, home to a diverse array of Indigenous peoples, is the epitome of a syncretic culture between European and native peoples. This blending of cultures extends to religion where Catholicism is the most prominent system of beliefs in the country. However, aspects of indigenous religions have blended with Catholicism, forming a unique strand of Christianity. For example, saints’ celebrations are combined with indigenous spiritual practices. The same trend is seen in Bolivia architecture, where in Sucre and Potosi, indigenous motifs are incorporated into European-influenced buildings. Interestingly, Bolivia also has two capitals, a phenomenon rarely seen across the world. In addition, Bolivia has an extremely high altitude, with the highest capital in the world and the highest lake in the world within its confines. Coca leaves are a fascinating local remedy to cope with the extreme altitude. Bolivia's extreme geography is on full display in spectacles like the "carretera de la muerte (highway of death)" which runs extremely narrowly with no guard rail along the side of a steep mountain. With Bolivia’s mountainous, land-locked terrain, access to quality schooling in rural areas is a rarity, perpetuating the inequalities between these two types of civilization. The same principle can be applied to healthcare too, where indigenous peoples can often resort to traditional methods which can be ineffective. Ethnically, Bolivia has a majority mestizo (mixed Indigenous/European) population, with Quechua and Aymara Indigenous peoples comprising a significant fraction of the populous while Europeans and Afro-Bolivians take up a minority role. In the west of the country, one can find the Collas, while in the environmentally disparate east one can find the Cambas. These two groups of Bolivians have very distinct cultures. Urbanization in major cities like La Paz, which serve as economic hubs, shows the shift to modernity in Bolivian society. Nonetheless, populations that remain in rural areas maintain traditional ways of life rooted in agricultural and communal practices. Cultural celebrations include Easter and Carnaval events as well as indigenous festivals like Inti Raymi. Food in Bolivia is centered around crops such as potatoes, corn, and quinoa, as well as llama, which is abundant in the region. Dishes like salteñas and api showcase the country’s regional specialties. Bolivia sees emigration to Europe or other neighboring countries seeking better opportunities, while the country’s immigration comes mainly from Peru, contributing to Bolivia’s diversity and customs. Bolivia’s economy revolves around natural resources, such as natural gas, minerals, and agriculture. Familial connections are very important in the country. Respecting elders is commonplace, and community-oriented beliefs dominate all social interaction. A long struggle in Bolivian politics has been the fight for indigenous rights. Soccer serves as a uniting force in Bolivia, bringing communities together, similar to what is done by certain local dances. One quintessential example of Bolivian dress is the bowling hat that many rural women in Bolivia are found wearing.