How is Carnival an example of cultural exchange in South America?
A It involves parades and costumed dancers.
B It combines African dance and European religion.
C It involves the Christian practice of fasting.
D It attracts millions of participants to Brazil’s cities.
B It combines African dance and European religion.
B It combines African dance and European religion.
The correct answer is B. Carnival in South America is a prime example of cultural exchange because it combines African dance and European religion.
To arrive at this answer, we can analyze the different options. Answer choice A refers to parades and costumed dancers, which are common elements of Carnival celebrations, but they do not directly relate to cultural exchange.
Answer choice C mentions the Christian practice of fasting, which is not specific to South American culture or Carnival itself. While some Christians may observe fasting during the Lenten season leading up to Easter, it is not a defining characteristic of Carnival.
Answer choice D indicates that Carnival attracts millions of participants to Brazil's cities. While this is true, it does not directly explain how Carnival represents cultural exchange.
Therefore, the most accurate answer is B, as Carnival in South America incorporates African dance forms and European religious traditions. European colonization brought Catholicism to South America, and African slaves brought their vibrant music, dance, and traditional practices. Over time, these different cultural elements merged to create the rich and diverse festival known as Carnival.