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Latin Music Industry, 2004.
A look at the urgent need facing the Latin American music industry to protect it from the threat posed by recent technological advances.
2,925 words (approx. 11.7 pages), 10 sources, MLA, $ 86.95
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Abstract
This paper highlights three types of technological advances that threaten to destroy the music industry. Of special focus is the Latin American music industry, which has been hardest hit by these advances. The paper points out that the need to address these problems, cited as music piracy, the availability of home digital recording equipment, and peer-to-peer file sharing on the Internet is critical, since it threatens the overall existence of that industry. The paper continues by giving specifics of the recording industry decline and by explaining why the Latin American music industry is particularly affected. Finally, the paper devotes some discussion on possible ways to approach the problem.
Specifics of the Recording Industry Decline
Fighting Music Piracy
Global Connections and the Motive Behind the Money
Offsetting the Power of Consumers to Burn Personal CD?s
Shutting Down Peer-to-Peer Networks or Turning Them into Revenue
Channels
From the Paper
"According to Buckley (2000) while U.S. recording industry officials wring their hands over Napster, the worldwide black market for illicitly copied music is growing even faster. Sales of pirated music topped half a billion units last year and cost the music industry $5 billion in lost revenues. As of the turn of the 21st century, one in three CDs sold around the world last year were copies, churned out in pirate?s hidden factories that can press up to 100,000 discs a day, according to the International Federation of Phonographic Industries. In Brazil, Latin America's music piracy leader, ?40 percent of CDs and 99 percent of cassettes sold were illegal copies, a total value of $180 million,? said IFPI. ?In Mexico, the 1999 pirate music market was worth $70 million, or 40 percent of all music sold, the agency reported.? (Buckley, 2000)"
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Central American History, 2004.
A look at the political and economic development of Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica.
2,144 words (approx. 8.6 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 67.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at the historical, economic, social, and political forces that contributed to the governments that exist in Central America today. The paper discusses the influence of the colonial period, the influence of agrarian aspects of the Central American economies, the influence of liberal and social reform movements, and the influence of U.S economic policies on the political independence and development of the countries of Central America.
From the Paper
"The five different countries of Central America; Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica, have a history of different political regimes based on similar political ideology. All of these nations share a colonial heritage but have separate paths toward independence. They share a basic foundation of liberal political beliefs that have developed in very divergent ways. Guatemala and El Salvador established a military-authoritarianism through radical liberalism, Costa Rica a progressive democracy through reformist liberalism and traditional-authoritarianism was the structure of choice in Honduras and Nicaragua after liberalism was tried and failed (Mahoney 221)."
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The Latin American Recording Industry, 2004.
A research paper examining the effect of the Latin American music industry on national culture.
3,100 words (approx. 12.4 pages), 10 sources, MLA, $ 90.95
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Abstract
The Latin American recording industry has always been a unique industry that blends economics, entertainment, and culture. The majority of its entertainers depict the variety of ethnicity that is part of Latin American culture. This paper investigates the Latin American recording industry, the genres of music and hybrid styles, and the role label companies play in producing and managing the artists. It also looks at how music interacts culturally, politically, and economically, affecting social identity Research in this paper shows that there is a complex relationship between the industry itself and the development of pan-Latin identities, as well as a more intricate relationship between economics and culture. In addition, the research demonstrates that the Latin American recording industry is a powerful medium for creating images among consumers, which impacts the desire to be like their idol. Finally, this paper summarizes the potential changes created by a new business model for the Latin American recording industry.
From the Paper
"Aside from the confusion between Latin American and Latino music, the U.S. Latino market is undergoing a crucial transformation, perhaps more in taking stock of reality than in reality itself. It is no secret that U.S.Latino music has largely meant the kind of pop associated with Jennifer Lopez, Marc Anthony, Ricky Martin and the like, or with so-called tropical music (salsa and kindred genres). New York and Miami are the capitals of this kind of pop and tropical, but when the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) ?the music industry's trade organization ? began dividing Latin music sales by genre in 2000, they discovered the overwhelming sales dominance of the Mexican regional market, which is based in California and the Southwest, particularly Texas, and generates 60 percent of the US$640 million market for Latin music sales."
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Central America, 2004.
An overview of the modern history of Central America, starting from the Spanish imperialism of the 16th century.
1,541 words (approx. 6.2 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 50.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how Central America is a distinctive region comprising of five small countries, namely, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica, and how the five countries have encountered more than their fair share of political chaos and turmoil, beginning from the times of colonial occupation. It looks at the development of the region from being one of the economically depressed and socially backwards sections of the world when the Spaniards entered the region, through their independence from the Spaniards in 1821, to the liberalism and dictatorships of the 20th century.
From the Paper
"The enlightenment that came through Spaniards ironically marked the end of Spanish rule when in 1821 Central America declared its independence, surprisingly without a shred of violence. The people who had gained some cultural advancement and political awareness refused to remain under Spanish control after Mexico announced its independence. The very next year, Central America decided to join Mexican empire but this fusion was short lived as the five countries detached themselves from Mexico in mid-1823. From fifteen years after that till 1838, these five countries shared one political identity and the federation was known as Provinces of Central America. The union which had been enthusiastically created was however not as beneficial to all countries as had been originally perceived."
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Venezuela and the United States, 2004.
Explores the environmental, geographical, and societal similarities between the United States and Venezuela.
908 words (approx. 3.6 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 32.95
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Abstract
This paper compares and contrasts the geography, natural resources, history, cultural aspects, environmental issues, economy, and politics of the United States and Venezuela.
From the Paper
"Venezuela sits on the northern part of eastern South America, bordering the Caribbean Sea. Its area, about 912,000 sq km, makes it about twice the size of California (CIA, 2004a). Within that area. Venezuela has mountains (the Andes), lowlands, plains, and highlands, with its highest point the mountain Pico Bolivar, about 5,000 meters high. Its climate is almost entirely tropical although the highlands have more moderate temperatures. The country?s natural resources include petroleum and natural gas, iron ore, gold, bauxite, other minerals, and diamonds (CIA, 2004a). Venezuela has some hydro-electric power."
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Colombia and the United States, 2004.
This paper discusses the geographic, socioeconomic, and cultural differences between Colombia and the United States.
1,485 words (approx. 5.9 pages), 6 sources, APA, $ 49.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that United States and Colombia share a hemisphere, a legacy of European colonization, rough equivalents in terms of life expectancy and literacy, and both appear to be waging two wars at the same time; however, the comparison largely ends there. The author points out that Colombia is treading a very thin line as it seeks to balance the need to continue to pursue its aggressive economic reforms while prosecuting untenable wars against the drug traffickers and insurgents who continue to represent a major threat to the political stability of the nation. The paper stresses that, if stabilized, Colombia could become one of the leading industrialized nations of the world, based on its hard-working and highly literate population.
Table of Content
Introduction
Review and Analysis
Table 1. Comparison of Colombia and United States
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Today, Colombia still strongly reflects its legacy as a colony of Spain, and is frequently referred to as the most Roman Catholic of the South American countries; the majority of the Colombian people are proud of the relative purity of their Spanish language. The country?s population is heavily mestizo, a term which describes those of European and Indian descent; there are also significant minorities of European and African ancestry. The country?s economy is traditionally agricultural based, especially its world-famous coffee as well as fruit production; however, industries and services are assuming increasing importance. Colombia has the most population of any of the Spanish-speaking nations in South America; more than one-third of its inhabitants live in the six biggest metropolitan areas, of which Bogot? is the largest. Despite the advantages of climate and an abundance of natural resources, Colombia?s political instability has been historically linked with the inequitable distribution of wealth, and the illicit trade in drugs (primarily cocaine) continues to represent a major challenges to the stability of life in Colombian life."
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The Mexican Muralist Movement, 2004.
This paper discusses the Mexican Muralist Movement, which followed the Mexican constitution of 1917.
3,310 words (approx. 13.2 pages), 5 sources, APA, $ 94.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that, by the early 1920s, Mexican Secretary of Education Vasconcelos ensured the creation of an artistic renaissance in which Mexican artists reinterpreted Mexican history in accord with revolutionary principles, locating major works of arts on the walls of public buildings and, thus, making them accessible to the most humble and unlettered of Mexicans. The author points out that Mexico became a destination of choice for Americans and Europeans with a wide variety of leftist views, ranging from liberalism to communism. The paper explores the work of Diego Rivera, unmistakably a major light in the Mexican Muralist Movement, and his wife Frida Kahlo, who was not a muralist, but who retained some of the essential characteristics that defined the Mexican Muralist Movement.
Table of Contents
Background
Spiritual Revolution
Cross-Pollination via Admiration
A Different Sort of Revolution, a Different Sort of Art
Foundations of the New Art
Diego Rivera
Frida Kahlo
From the Paper
"Others besides Delpar regard this as ?the most fascinating phase of the whole revolutionary movement?.the attempt to readjust the spiritual and cultural background of an entire nation in accordance with the revolutionary changes that the machine age had produced.? Vasconcelos expanded cultural activities widely, including archaeology, ancient history of Mexico, religion, literature, music and the visual arts. Until then, none had ever been developed as integrated parts of the nation?s cultural heritage. The most vital and strongest to emerge, and one that has been uniquely identified with Mexico, is mural painting."
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Toussaint L'Ouverture, 2004.
This paper discusses the history of Toussaint L'Ouverture, hero of
Haiti.
1,240 words (approx. 5.0 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 42.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that Toussaint L'Ouverture, despite a lack of formal education and training, drove French Emperor Napoleon out of Haiti and led his country to independence. The author points out that L?Ouverture?s grandfather was reported to have been an African king of the Arradas tribe who occupied a western part of the continent; in a plundering expedition undertaken by a neighboring tribe, a son of this king named Gaou-Guinou, who was to become L?Ouverture's father, was made captive and sold to slave dealers in Haiti. The paper relates that L?Ouverture lived in slavery for 50 years before making his mark on the country; however, during that time, witnessing too much of the bondage of his people, he developed leadership traits that made him stand out from others.
From the Paper
"Such smaller attacks led into the Haitian Revolution. They also set precedence for the martial tradition of blacks. Yet, despite their desire for freedom, the maroons could not develop a larger insurrection against the white colonists. This changed with the rise of Toussaint L'Ouverture. As Beard notes, ?In the midst of these conflicting passions and threatening disorders, there was a character quietly forming, which was to do more than all others, first to gain the mastery of them, and then to conduct them to issues of a favorable nature.? "
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Intercultural Communication, 2004.
Discusses ways to bridge the cultural gaps that exist in American society.
7,800 words (approx. 31.2 pages), 36 sources, APA, $ 169.95
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Abstract
Over the coming decade, the population demographics throughout the United States are going to continue to change. It will not be long before parts of the country, such as Southern California, have more Latino-Americans than Anglo-Americans. This trend will have a definite impact on all aspects of American life. Presently, Anglo-Americans have very little knowledge about the Latino culture in the States or in other countries. This paper shows that it is imperative that this lack of understanding be diminished for reasons that will benefit the Latino community as well as the American society as a whole. The paper provides a background on the changing demographics, the relatively new social sciences of intercultural and multicultural organizational communications, and examples of ways that this knowledge is being used to create the desired result of a more peaceful society. It is understood that much more research must be conducted and new multicultural communication methods be tried. This necessitates that all Americans, regardless of their nationalities, recognize that the successful future of the country depends on joining forces rather than being in separate cultural camps.
Paper Outline
Abstract
Introduction
Current Research
Bibliography
From the Paper
"He also notes that cultures have different context, or the amount of information a person can comfortably manage. This can vary from a high context culture where background information is implicit to a low context culture where much of the background information must be made explicit in an interaction. People from high context cultures frequently send more information implicitly and have a wider network. They thus tend to be knowledgeable on numerous subjects. People from low context cultures normally verbalize much more background information and tend not to be well informed on subjects beyond their own interests. American culture is considered to be on the low-context side. A great deal of information provides cues on how to proceed and respond. Latin-Americans tend to be in a middle range."
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Mexicans in America, 2004.
A discussion of racial discrimination towards Mexicans living in America.
1,950 words (approx. 7.8 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 62.95
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Abstract
This paper begins with a general overview of racial discrimination in American history, including racism against blacks, Jews, and Indians. The paper then looks at the contribution of Mexicans to American history and society and how they fit into society. The writer then discusses the current state of Mexican life in America, including education, culture, and general acceptance.
From the Paper
"In the past, immigrants to the United States almost always started out on the bottom of the job ladder, often needing two or three generations to move into society's mainstream. However, although increased competition and globalization has pushed wages somewhat higher for second and third generation Mexican-Americans, they have not advanced into better jobs. (Althaus). This is due in large part because of inferior education. In fact, despite gains made in recent decades, Mexicans remain the most poorly educated ethnic group in America. Almost half of Mexican-American students do not finish high school and less than 10 percent earn college degrees."
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The Argentine Republic, 2004.
This paper is an economic analysis and projection for the Argentine Republic.
2,290 words (approx. 9.2 pages), 10 sources, MLA, $ 70.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that Argentina enjoys a wide range of natural resources, a highly literacy rate, an export-oriented agricultural sector, and a diversified industrial base; on the other hand, the country has suffered recurring economic problems of inflation, external debt, capital flight, and budget deficits over the past 10 years. The author points out that, unlike the rest of the continent to the north,which lies within the tropics, Argentina lies almost completely within the temperate zone of the Southern Hemisphere. As a result, the country enjoys excellent weather. The paper concludes that, notwithstanding the Argentine government?s history of poor economic management practices, it appears things are looking up; investors at home and abroad may look at Argentina in the future if the government can just avoid the same types of mistakes it has consistently made in the past.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Review and Analysis
People/Population
Climate and Geography
Historical Development
Major Development
Social Indicators
Economic Indicators
Recent Economic Performance
Economic Crisis
Economic Ties with the Rest of Latin America
Recovery Strategy Needed
Future of Argentina
Conclusion
The World Bank Group Competitiveness Indicators
From the Paper
"The government efforts to achieve a "zero deficit," to stabilize the banking system, and to restore economic growth proved too little too late and the peso's peg to the dollar was abandoned in January 2002; the peso was floated in February 2002 and the exchange rate plummeted and inflation skyrocketed. By mid-2002, though, the economy had stabilized but at a lower level than previously. A strong demand for the peso caused the Central Bank to intervene in foreign exchange markets to constrain its appreciation in early 2003. Further fueled by precedent-setting export levels, the country?s economy began to recover with output up 5.5% in 2003, unemployment falling, and inflation sliced to 4.2% by year-end 2003."
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North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), 2004.
This paper discusses NAFTA, which established a free-trade zone in North America and was signed in 1992 by Canada, Mexico, and the United States. It took effect on Jan. 1, 1994.
985 words (approx. 3.9 pages), 5 sources, APA, $ 34.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that NAFTA immediately removed tariffs on the majority of goods produced by the participating nations and set forth a plan for the gradual elimination, over a period of 15 years, of most remaining barriers to cross-border investment and to the movement of goods and services among the three countries. The author points out that, unlike the United States, Mexico's border communities have benefited from NAFTA, growing almost 10 times as fast as states in Mexico's south, while absorbing the lion's share of foreign investments. The paper concludes that calling NAFTA a ?trade? agreement is misleading; NAFTA is actually an investment agreement because its core provisions grant foreign investors a solid set of new rights and privileges that promote relocation abroad of factories and jobs and the privatization and deregulation of essential services, including water, energy, and health care.
From the Paper
"In 2000, California?s exports to Mexico totaled $14.4 billion, an increase of nearly 18 percent over the previous year, and Texas' shipments grew 5.5 percent to a total of $24.6 billion, according to Commerce Department figures (Lewis, 2004). Meanwhile, the United States continues to lure Mexican workers, many of whom came from rural communities when Mexico opened its markets to subsidized U.S. agricultural goods."
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Racial Bias in the Media, 2004.
Examines the portrayal of minority groups in the media.
1,107 words (approx. 4.4 pages), 5 sources, APA, $ 38.95
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Abstract
Many experts believe that minority groups are often portrayed in a negative light or not portrayed in the media at all. This paper explores the topic of racial bias in the media as it pertains to the portrayal of minorities in the news and in television programs. The paper examines the great strides that have been made to create positive images of various ethnic groups.
From the Paper
"An article published in the Journal of Broadcasting & Electronic Media asserts that the negative portrayal of minorities often means that they are viewed as being guilty until they are proven innocent. The article discusses the findings of a study that examined the extent to which pretrial media coverage biased jurors against defendants. The study found that there was a disproportionate amount of news coverage that occurred when the defendant in a crime was Black or Hispanic, than if the defendant was white."
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Women in South America, 2004.
A discussion of the status of women in the countries of South America.
1,743 words (approx. 7.0 pages), 12 sources, MLA, $ 56.95
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Abstract
This paper looks at various issues regarding women and their rights in South America. The issues discussed include abortion, job status, presence in the media, legal and ownership rights, and education. The writer looks at the major issues faced by women in Chile, Brazil, Argentina, Guatemala, and other countries as well. The paper also looks at the history of the feminist movement in the region.
From the Paper
"Feminism has played a large role in helping to secure a number of women's rights in South America. Women's movements have been active in Brazil in the past decades. The movements grew in the 1980s as Conselho Nacional de Direitos da Mulher--CNDM, a council on women's rights, was created. The early Brazilian feminist movement had links to the resistance to the military regime, and connections to human rights organizations. As the movements grew, violence against women (in the forms of sexual harassment, sexual abuse, and domestic violence) became an important focus of feminist groups."
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Puerto Rican Music, 2004.
Examines the early years (1920-1930) of Puerto Rican music in the United States.
986 words (approx. 3.9 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 35.95
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Abstract
This paper explores the origins of Puerto Rican music during the 1920s and 1930s. Puerto Rican music has its roots in many different types of Latino music, from the Tango to the jazz, blues and ragtime from New Orleans, Mexican, Caribbean, and Cuban rhythms, and it, in turn, helped influence many of these musical types, too. The paper shows that the early years of Puerto Rican music in the United States created a lasting Latino beat that still weaves its rhythms today around the world.
From the Paper
"By the 1930s, Latin music had become so popular it was replacing other types of music in East Harlem and El Barrio in New York City, and Puerto Rican dance clubs were springing up where Jewish theaters had captured audiences just a few years before. Because Puerto Ricans were migrating to New York in record numbers at the turn of the 20th century, they needed creative and artistic avenues, and hungered for familiar music during their leisure time. As Latin music grew more popular, so did the number of Puerto Ricans entering New York, and the two seemed to merge and blend into their own form of entertainment. Little by little, the Puerto Ricans came to dominate the New York music scene, overshadowing even the popular Cuban music that had become so popular with Latinos and Americans alike."
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