Argentina

Argentina, officially the Argentine Republic, is a large country in the southern part of South America. It is the second-largest country in South America, covering an area of 2,780,085 km² (1,073,397 mi²). Argentina shares borders with several countries, including Chile to the west, Bolivia and Paraguay to the north, Brazil to the northeast, and Uruguay to the east. It also has coastlines along the South Atlantic Ocean and the Drake Passage.

The country is made up of twenty-three provinces and one autonomous city, Buenos Aires, which is both the capital and the largest city. Argentina has a rich history that dates back to ancient times, with early human settlements and later influence from the Inca Empire. The country began to take shape during Spanish colonization in the 16th century and declared independence in 1816.

Throughout its history, Argentina has experienced periods of stability and political upheaval. Today, it is considered a regional power with a strong economy. Argentina is an important member of many international groups, including the United Nations, the World Bank, and the G20. The country is known for its diverse culture, influenced by waves of European immigrants, especially from Italy and Spain.

Etymology

Main article: Etymology of Argentina

The name Argentina comes from the Italian word meaning "made of silver" or "silver coloured." This name was likely given by early Venetian and Genoese sailors. The word comes from the Latin word for silver, argentum.

The name was first used in a Spanish poem in 1602. Over time, the country was called different names, but today it is known simply as Argentina. In English, people used to call it "the Argentine," but now we just say "Argentina."

History

Pre-Columbian era

Evidence shows humans lived in parts of what is now Argentina as early as 21,000 years ago. Fossils of a large, extinct armored mammal were found near Buenos Aires, showing signs of being hunted with stone tools. Further south, the Piedra Museo site has human remains and tools from about 11,000 years ago, including spearheads linked to hunting large extinct animals. The Cave of the Hands features handprints and hunting scenes made between 7,300 BC and 700 AD, giving us clues about early hunter-gatherer life.

Before European arrival, Argentina had many different cultures. They were grouped into three main types: basic hunters and gatherers without pottery, like those in the far south; advanced hunters and gatherers, such as those in the center-east and south; and farmers with pottery in the northeast and northwest.

Colonial era

Europeans arrived in the region in 1502. Spanish explorers visited the area in the early 1500s, and in 1536, they founded Buenos Aires, though it was abandoned shortly after. More settlements were established from nearby areas like Paraguay, Peru, and Chile. The Spanish Empire controlled the region, focusing on the wealth from mines in Bolivia and Peru.

Buenos Aires successfully defended against British attacks in 1806 and 1807. Ideas from the Enlightenment and revolutions in other parts of the world led to growing unrest against Spanish rule.

Independence and civil wars

The May Revolution of 1810 marked the start of Argentina's path to independence, replacing the Spanish viceroy with a local government in Buenos Aires. Early battles for independence faced challenges from nearby regions that later became independent countries. Over time, leaders like José de San Martín helped secure independence for Argentina, Chile, and Peru.

Argentina's first decades of independence were marked by conflicts between two groups: the Centralists and the Federalists. The Congress of Tucumán formally declared independence on July 9, 1816, now celebrated as Independence Day. General José de San Martín led an army across the Andes to help Chile and Peru gain independence.

Rise of the modern nation

After defeating a rival leader in 1861, Bartolomé Mitre became the first president of a unified Argentina. His presidency, along with those of Domingo Sarmiento and Nicolás Avellaneda, laid the groundwork for the modern Argentine state.

Starting in 1880, presidents focused on liberal economic policies. A large wave of European immigrants transformed Argentine society and the economy. By 1908, Argentina was one of the world's wealthiest nations. The country became a major exporter of wheat and beef, and its railway network expanded greatly. Education improvements led to higher literacy rates.

Between 1878 and 1884, efforts to expand Argentina's territory led to conflicts with indigenous peoples, known as the Conquest of the Desert. The government viewed indigenous people as inferior and took their lands.

In 1912, President Roque Sáenz Peña introduced voting rights for men, allowing Hipólito Yrigoyen to become president in 1916. Argentina remained neutral during World War I. Yrigoyen's second term faced economic difficulties caused by the Great Depression.

Peronist years

Juan Perón became president in 1946 and brought major changes. He improved workers' rights, paid off national debts, and supported social programs. However, his rule also involved suppressing political opponents. Perón was reelected in 1951, but as the economy worsened, his support declined. In 1955, he was overthrown and went into exile.

Revolución Libertadora

A new leader banned Peronist political activities. In 1958, Arturo Frondizi won the election and tried to balance relations with both Peronists and the military, but faced coups and political instability. Later leaders continued to struggle with governance and economic challenges.

Perón's return and death

After years of military rule, elections in 1973 brought back Perón, though he was initially replaced by a stand-in president. Perón returned later that year and faced increasing conflicts within his party and from armed groups. He died in 1974 and was succeeded by his wife, Isabel Perón. Her presidency was short and marked by political turmoil.

National Reorganization Process

A military junta took control and began a period known as the National Reorganization Process. They shut down Congress, banned political parties, and used violence against perceived opponents. The junta received support from several United States administrations.

The military also fought guerrilla groups. In 1982, Argentina invaded the Falkland Islands, leading to a conflict with the United Kingdom. After losing the war, the military leadership stepped down, and efforts began to return to democratic rule.

Return to democracy

Raúl Alfonsín won the 1983 election and worked to prosecute those responsible for human rights abuses during the military rule. Economic troubles led to the presidency of Carlos Menem in 1989, who implemented economic reforms. Later presidents faced challenges including economic crises and political changes.

Néstor Kirchner became president in 2003 and focused on economic recovery and human rights issues. His wife, Cristina Kirchner, followed as president. In 2015, Mauricio Macri won the presidency and faced economic difficulties. Alberto Fernández became president in 2019, facing challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2023, Javier Milei won the presidential election and began implementing economic reforms.

Geography

Main article: Geography of Argentina

Argentina is a large country in southern South America. It is the second-largest country in South America, covering an area of 2,780,400 km² (1,073,518 sq mi). Argentina shares borders with several countries: Chile to the west, Bolivia and Paraguay to the north, Brazil to the northeast, and Uruguay to the east. It also borders the South Atlantic Ocean and the Drake Passage.

The country's highest point is Aconcagua in Mendoza province, standing at 6,959 m (22,831 ft) above sea level. It is also the highest point in the Southern and Western Hemispheres. The lowest point is Laguna del Carbón in Santa Cruz province, which is −105 m (−344 ft) below sea level.

Main article: Environment of Argentina

Argentina has rich and varied plant and animal life. The country has many different kinds of habitats, which support a wide range of species. There are many types of plants, birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians found here.

Main articles: Climate of Argentina and Climatic regions of Argentina

Argentina has many different climates due to its size and varied landscapes. In the north, the climate is warm and humid, while in the south, it can be cold and dry. Some areas have rainy summers, while others are very dry. The country experiences different weather patterns, including cool winds and occasional heavy rains.

Government and politics

Main articles: Politics of Argentina and Elections in Argentina

Argentina has had a lot of changes in its government over the years. In the past, the country sometimes switched between having a strong leader and having democratic elections. But since 1983, Argentina has been a steady democracy, with regular elections and fair voting.

Argentina is a country where the people choose their leaders. The government has three main parts: the group that makes laws, the leader and their team who run the country, and the group that makes sure everyone follows the rules. The president is chosen by the people to lead the country for four years and can serve again once more.

Provinces

Main article: Provinces of Argentina

Argentina is made up of twenty-three areas called provinces and one special city, Buenos Aires. Each province has its own local government and makes its own rules, but they all follow the same big rules for the whole country. Some provinces have two groups making laws, while others have just one.

Foreign relations

Main article: Foreign relations of Argentina

Argentina works with many other countries around the world. It is part of important groups like the United Nations and helps keep peace in places far away. Argentina also has special ties with its neighbors in South America and works together on many projects.

Military

Main article: Armed Forces of the Argentine Republic

The president leads the country's armed forces, which include the army, navy, and air force. These groups protect Argentina and help in times of need, like natural disasters or helping other countries. People choose to join the military when they are old enough, and there are no forced enlistments. The military works to keep Argentina safe and supports peace around the world.

Economy

Main article: Economy of Argentina

See also: Industry in Argentina and Argentine foreign trade

Argentina has a big economy, making it the third largest in Latin America. It is rich in natural resources and has a good education system. The country grows a lot of important crops like soybeans, maize, and wheat. It is also known for producing meat, wine, and many other products.

Argentina makes things like cars, clothes, and machines. It has many factories and mines, especially for lithium and silver. The country also has a lot of oil and natural gas. Argentina has been working to improve its economy and reduce poverty.

Tourism

Main article: Tourism in Argentina

Argentina welcomes many visitors each year, especially to its capital, Buenos Aires, and its beautiful national parks. The country has many places to see, including the Nahuel Huapi National Park and its famous lake.

Transport

Main article: Transport in Argentina

Argentina has many roads, but some are not well kept. It also has a large railway system, though it has faced problems in the past. The country has many ports and airports, with Buenos Aires being the most important.

Energy

Main article: Electricity sector in Argentina

Most of Argentina's electricity comes from natural gas, oil, and coal. A smaller part comes from hydropower, wind, solar, and nuclear energy. The country has been working on using more renewable energy sources.

Science and technology

Main article: Science and technology in Argentina

Argentine scientists have made important discoveries, including work on hormones, energy storage, and heart treatments. The country has its own space program and has built satellites. Argentine scientists are known for their work in many areas of science and technology.

Demographics

Main articles: Demographics of Argentina and Argentines

In 2022, Argentina had about 46 million people, growing from 40 million in 2010. By 2024, the population reached around 47 million. Argentina is the third most populous country in South America. The country has a population density of 15 people per square kilometre, which is lower than the world average.

Argentina is experiencing a demographic transition, with a growing proportion of older people. About 25% of people are under 15 years old, and around 11% are 65 or older. The country has a low infant mortality rate and a birth rate that has decreased over time. Life expectancy is around 77 years.

Attitudes towards LGBT people in Argentina are generally positive. In 2010, Argentina became the first country in Latin America to legalise same-sex marriage.

Urbanisation

See also: List of cities in Argentina by population and List of cities in Argentina

Most people in Argentina live in cities—about 92% of the population. The largest city is Buenos Aires, with around 3 million people in the city itself and about 13 million in the greater metropolitan area. Other big cities include Córdoba and Rosario, each with around 1.3 million people. Several other cities have populations of at least half a million.

Ethnography

Main article: Argentines

See also: Ethnography of Argentina and Immigration to Argentina

Argentina is often called a "melting pot" because of its diverse population. Most people have European ancestry, especially from Italy and Spain. There are also significant groups with indigenous, African, and Asian backgrounds. Many people from Bolivia, Paraguay, and Peru have moved to Argentina in recent years.

Languages

Main article: Languages of Argentina

Spanish is the official language and is spoken by almost everyone. Argentina has its own way of speaking Spanish, called Rioplatense, which is influenced by Italian and other European languages. Many people also speak other languages such as English, Italian, Arabic, German, and Guaraní.

Religion

Main article: Religion in Argentina

Christianity is the most common religion in Argentina, with most people being Catholic. However, the number of people who do not follow any religion is growing. Argentina also has communities of Muslims, Jews, and people of other faiths. In 2013, an Argentine, Jorge Mario Bergoglio, became Pope Francis, the first pope from the Americas.

Education

Main article: Education in Argentina

Argentina’s education system has four levels: early childhood, primary school, secondary school, and higher education. Most children attend school for free. Many people go to university, and there are both public and private universities.

Health

Main article: Health care in Argentina

Healthcare in Argentina is provided through a mix of public and private systems. There are many hospitals, doctors, and dentists. Life expectancy has improved, and infant mortality has decreased, though it is not as high as in some developed countries. Common causes of death include diseases of the heart and tumours.

Culture

Main article: Culture of Argentina

See also: List of Argentines

Argentina is a country with many different cultures, heavily influenced by Europe. Modern Argentine culture has been shaped mainly by people from Italy, Spain, and other European countries like France, Russia, and the United Kingdom. Cities often show European styles in fashion, architecture, and design.

Museums, cinemas, and galleries are common in big cities, along with traditional spots like literary bars or bars with live music of many kinds. There are also influences from Amerindian and African cultures, especially in music and art. The lifestyle of the gauchos, skilled cowboy figures, also plays a big role in the country’s traditions. Indigenous American traditions are part of everyday life in Argentina.

Literature

Main article: Argentine literature

Argentina has a rich history of literature. It began around 1550 and grew strongly with works like Esteban Echeverría’s El Matadero. Famous writers include Jorge Luis Borges, known for books like Ficciones and The Aleph, and Julio Cortázar, a key figure in world literature. Other important authors are Adolfo Bioy Casares, Ricardo Güiraldes, and many more.

Music

Main article: Music of Argentina

Tango, a musical style with European and African roots, is a famous symbol of Argentina. The golden age of tango was from 1930 to the mid-1950s. Later, Astor Piazzolla made a more thoughtful version called Nuevo tango. Today, tango is enjoyed worldwide.

Argentina also has strong classical music and dance traditions. Famous artists include Alberto Ginastera, Martha Argerich, and Daniel Barenboim. Folk music grew in the 1930s, with singers like Atahualpa Yupanqui and Mercedes Sosa. Argentine rock began in the 1960s with bands like Los Gatos and Sui Generis. Today, new styles like Cachengue are popular.

Theatre and cinema

Main articles: Theatre in Argentina and Cinema of Argentina

Buenos Aires is a major center for theatre, often called the “Broadway of Argentina.” The Teatro Colón is famous for opera and classical music. Argentina’s film industry has been strong since 1896. It produced the world’s first animated feature films in 1917 and 1918. Argentine films have won top awards, including two Academy Awards for Best Foreign Language Film. The country has many respected filmmakers and actors.

Visual arts and architecture

See also: Argentine painting and Architecture of Argentina

Argentina has many well-known painters, such as Cándido López, Ernesto de la Cárcova, and Antonio Berni. The country’s architecture mixes Spanish Baroque styles with Italian and French influences.

Mass media

Main article: Communications in Argentina

Argentina has a strong press with over two hundred newspapers, including Clarín and La Nación. Radio broadcasting began in 1920. Television is popular across Latin America, and internet use is widespread.

Cuisine

Main article: Argentine cuisine

Argentine food includes pasta, sausage, and desserts from Europe, as well as local dishes like empanadas, locro, and humita. The country eats a lot of red meat, often cooked as asado (barbecue). Desserts include facturas and dulce de leche. Argentine wine, especially Malbec, is famous worldwide.

Sport

Main article: Sport in Argentina

Pato is Argentina’s national sport, played on horseback. The most popular sport is football. The national team has won the World Cup three times and many other titles. Famous players include Alfredo Di Stéfano, Diego Maradona, and Lionel Messi.

The women’s field hockey team, Las Leonas, has won many Olympic and world titles. Basketball is also popular, with the national team achieving great success. Rugby, boxing, tennis, and polo are also widely followed. Juan Manuel Fangio is one of the greatest race car drivers in history.