The Para River is a major river in South America, flowing through Brazil and Paraguay. Its name is spelled with the phonetic transcription /ˈpɑːrə/ in English, with the emphasis on the first syllable. The first letter "p" is pronounced with a voiceless bilabial plosive sound, followed by the vowel sound "a" pronounced with an open central unrounded sound. The second syllable "ra" is pronounced with an open mid-central vowel, and the final syllable "er" is pronounced as the schwa sound.
The Para River is a geographical feature that is situated in South America, specifically in the country of Brazil. This river holds significant importance due to its prominent characteristics and historical relevance. With a length of approximately 2,420 kilometers (1,500 miles), the Para River is considered one of the major water bodies in the region. It originates in the Serra dos Parecis mountain range, located in the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso, and flows northward through the Amazon rainforest before eventually emptying into the Atlantic Ocean via the Para Bay.
The Para River plays a vital role in the hydrological system of Brazil, as it interconnects various ecosystems and provides a gateway for transportation and trade. The river acts as a tributary to the mighty Amazon River, the largest river by volume in the world, contributing to the overall water flow and ecological balance of the Amazon Basin. Its waters are also utilized for irrigation purposes, benefiting local agriculture and supporting the sustenance of nearby communities.
Furthermore, the Para River holds historical significance, particularly in relation to the colonization of Brazil by European powers. It served as a maritime route during the Portuguese colonial era and played a crucial role in the transportation of goods, connecting the inland areas of Brazil to the Atlantic coast. Over time, the river has witnessed economic growth and development, establishing itself as an essential transportation corridor and an emblem of Brazil's natural beauty and cultural heritage.
The word "Para River" derives from the indigenous Tupi-Guarani language. In Tupi, "Para" means "great river" or "big river". This word was then adopted by the Portuguese, who arrived in the region in the 16th century. Over time, the name "Para" became associated with multiple rivers in different regions, resulting in various "Para Rivers" in different locations across Brazil. One notable example is the Para River that flows through the state of Pará in northern Brazil, before emptying into the Amazon River.