This publication challenges the premise that geographical influences need not be taken into account in economic development issues. It argues that, based on a better understanding of geography, public policy can help control or channel its influence toward the goals of economic and social development and poverty reduction. Using both an international perspective and a case study approach for individual countries, the book examines geographical factors, such as land productivity, the presence of endemic diseases, natural disaster frequency and market access, in order to explore development inequalities between and within Latin American countries. It also considers policy options for overcoming the limitations of geography for the region.