Southeast Region, Brazil facts for kids
Southeast Brazil (in Portuguese, Sudeste Do Brasil) is one of the five main regions in Brazil. It shares borders with South Brazil, Center-West Brazil, and Northeast Brazil. This region is very important for Brazil's economy. It creates 60% of the country's total wealth, known as its gross domestic product. The big states of Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Minas Gerais are all located here.
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What Makes Southeast Brazil Special?
Southeast Brazil is a very busy and important part of the country. It has many large cities, beautiful beaches, and tall mountains. This region is home to some of Brazil's most famous landmarks and industries.
The States of the Southeast
The Southeast region is made up of four states:
- São Paulo: This is the most populated and richest state in Brazil. Its capital city, São Paulo, is one of the biggest cities in the world. It's a major center for business, culture, and technology.
- Rio de Janeiro: Famous for its stunning beaches and the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue. The city of Rio de Janeiro was once Brazil's capital. It is known for its lively carnival and beautiful natural harbor.
- Minas Gerais: This state is known for its rich history, especially from the gold rush era. It has charming colonial towns and beautiful mountains. Minas Gerais is also a big producer of coffee and dairy products.
- Espírito Santo: This state has a long coastline with many lovely beaches. Its capital, Vitória, is an important port city. Espírito Santo is also known for its delicious seafood and natural beauty.
Big Cities and Landmarks
The Southeast region has many large and famous cities.
- São Paulo is a huge city with many skyscrapers and a busy city life. It's a global hub for finance and culture.
- Rio de Janeiro is famous for its beaches like Copacabana and Ipanema. The Christ the Redeemer statue on Corcovado mountain is a world-famous symbol.
- Belo Horizonte is the capital of Minas Gerais. It's a modern city surrounded by mountains. The Pampulha Church here is a famous example of modern Brazilian architecture.
- Uberlândia is another important city in Minas Gerais. It is a key center for trade and services in the region.
Economy and Industry
Southeast Brazil is the heart of Brazil's economy. It has many different types of industries.
- Farming: The region grows a lot of coffee and oranges. Minas Gerais is especially known for its coffee plantations. São Paulo is a major producer of oranges.
- Mining: Minas Gerais is rich in minerals, especially iron ore. There are large iron mines in this state.
- Manufacturing: Many factories are located here. They produce cars, steel, and other goods. Volkswagen has a big factory in São Paulo.
- Oil and Gas: Rio de Janeiro is important for oil and natural gas production. There are offshore oil platforms in its waters.
- Technology: Companies like Embraer, which makes airplanes, have their headquarters in São Paulo state. There are also chemical and pharmaceutical industries.
Transportation and Education
The Southeast region has a very good transportation network.
- Airports: Major international airports like São Paulo-Guarulhos and Confins International Airport in Minas Gerais connect the region to the rest of the world.
- Highways: Many important highways crisscross the region, making it easy to travel between cities.
- Universities: The region is home to some of Brazil's best universities, like the University of São Paulo. These universities help train future leaders and innovators.
Images for kids
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Ipê in Campinas.
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National Park of Serra da Canastra.
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Coffee plantation in Minas Gerais.
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Embraer Y-190, aircraft developed by company Embraer which has its headquarters in São José dos Campos, inland of São Paulo .
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Dom Pedro Highway, part of Campinas Beltway. Photo by Renato M.E. Sabbatini.
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São Paulo is the largest Brazilian city.
See also
In Spanish: Región Sudeste de Brasil para niños