Why do the Catholics have such a foothold in South America?

Question

Why has their religion spread so quickly throughout that area? Is it due to the European invasion?

Answer 1

Perhaps you should look up the story of Our Lady of Guadalupe and St. Juan Diego. The Spanish who were Catholic conquered that nation but, there is a reason that it is still predominantly Catholic and it lies in these miracles.

Answer 2

The original Spanish Conquistadors were Roman Catholics and spread the religion throughout the continent when they conquered the natives, so the religion has been established there for centuries.

Answer 3

South America was settled by Catholic Nations, the Catholic tradition has remained strong.
Penticostal Churches are growing faster in many South American Countries than Catholic Churches.
Minister

Answer 4

Because the "European" invasion was a Catholic invasion - all of the countries who set up colonies had Catholic rulers who sent Catholic priests and monks along with the troops-primarily Spain and Portugal.

Answer 5

It's because the Jesuits in Central and South America have worked very hard through the ever blessed "Liberation Theology" to help the people of these places.

Answer 6

Spanish and Portugese settlers brought Catholicism.
Don't forget Mexico and Central America.

Answer 7

Because Spain conquered South America and forced the Indians to convert.

Answer 8

The answer is YES. It is mainly Spanish influx. Catholicism is taught even in Schools. Part of an average elementary school student is to do his/her first Communion by the time he/she passes to middle School, this is part of the school's events.
On a different point, fear of Deity is what mainly enforces it.

Answer 9

Spain has always been dominant south of the border...and Spain is Catholic.

Answer 10

South america was exclusively settled by catholic nations.