Chile

Chile, officially the Republic of Chile, is a country located in the southwestern part of South America. It occupies a long, narrow strip of land between the Andes Mountains to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west. The capital and largest city is Santiago, which sits in a valley surrounded by snow-capped peaks.

Geography and Environment

The northern territory of Chile is home to the Atacama Desert, known as one of the most arid places on the planet and a significant source of Copper. Central Chile features a Mediterranean climate, providing ideal conditions for the production of Chilean Wine. To the south, the landscape transforms into a rugged terrain of fjords, glaciers, and the vast wilderness of Patagonia. The nation also governs Easter Island (Rapa Nui) in Polynesia.

History and Culture

Before the arrival of the Spanish Empire in the 16th century, northern and central Chile were under Inca Empire influence, while the Mapuche people inhabited the south-central regions. Independence from Spain was achieved in 1818, led by Bernardo O'Higgins. In more recent history, the country underwent a significant political transition from the military dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet to a stable democracy. Chile is also celebrated for its literature, particularly the works of Nobel Prize winners Pablo Neruda and Gabriela Mistral.

For further reading and statistical data, visit the Encyclopædia Britannica and the CIA World Factbook.

• Santiago
• Andes Mountains
• South America
• Easter Island