Which of the following regions had a major influence on the development of Afro-Brazilian Jazz?

The development of Afro-Brazilian Jazz was significantly influenced by South America, particularly due to Brazil's rich cultural history that combines African rhythms and musical traditions with Brazilian styles. The African diaspora, which brought rhythms and musical characteristics from numerous African cultures, deeply influenced Brazilian music, leading to the emergence of genres like samba, bossa nova, and, subsequently, Afro-Brazilian Jazz.

The blending of these cultural elements is evident in the instrumentation, rhythmic patterns, and improvisational styles found in Afro-Brazilian Jazz. Influences from indigenous and European musical traditions also contributed, but the unique African heritage is central to the genre's development. Recognizing this foundational impact helps clarify why South America is the correct answer, as it encompasses the cultural and musical framework from which Afro-Brazilian Jazz evolved.