1) The physical geography of South America includes the Andes Mountains, Guiana Highlands, plains like the Llanos, and major rivers like the Orinoco. It has diverse wildlife and climate varies with elevation and rainfall. 2) Colombia has a history of indigenous civilizations conquered by Spain. It struggled for independence and still faces conflict and violence today between guerrilla groups and the government. 3) Venezuela and the Guianas also have a colonial past under Spain. Venezuela relies heavily on its oil industry while the Guianas have diverse populations and economies based on agriculture.