Max and Emmy discuss Colombia:

Max: Have you ever been to any countries in Northwest South America?

Emmy: No, I would like to visit Colombia, but it is kind of dangerous.

Max: Yes, it is well known that Colombia has problems with crime due to drugs. Why do you want to go there?

Emmy: Columbia has many beautiful beaches and other beautiful landscapes, and my favorite musician is from there. Do you know Shakira?

Max: Oh yes! She is from Colombia?

Emmy: She certainly is. Many great people and things come from there. For example, one of my favorite authors, Gabriel Garcia Marquez is also from Colombia.

Max: Cool. Isn't a lot of coffee from Colombia as well?

Emmy: That's right. There are also a lot of fruits that come from Colombia like bananas.

Max: Have you heard anything about the history of Northwest South America?

Emmy: Not really, what happened?

Max: There were many Native American tribes living there before the Spanish conquered the area in the 1500's. The people in the area then lived under Spanish rule until they later fought for their independence.

Emmy: Wow, so much has happened there! These days Colombia has a strong economy, and the government is doing their best to eliminate the illegal drug trade. Do you think you will ever visit Colombia?

Max: Sure, I think I would like to go there someday.

Discussion questions:

Why doesn't Emmy go to Colombia now?

What famous people do Emmy talk about who come from Colombia?

What happened in Colombia's history?