Why is Latin America called 'Latin' America?

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The main official languages in the region - Spanish, Portuguese (and French) are derived from Latin.

These languages developed from Latin after the fall of the Roman Empire and the Europeans are called Latin peoples. Hence the term 'Latin America.'

The term was coined in the 1860s when the French Emperor Napoleon III was trying to extend French imperial control over Mexico. He and his ministers used the term to try to suggest at least some degree of cultural similarity throughout the region and with France.

First answer by ID0000000000. Last edit by Joncey. Contributor trust: 1928 [recommend contributor]. Question popularity: 331 [recommend question]

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