Argentina, officially known as the Argentine Republic, is a country located in the southern half of South America. It is the second-largest country on the continent after Brazil, the fourth-largest in the Americas, and the eighth-largest in the world, covering an area of 2,780,400 square kilometers (1,073,500 square miles).
Geography and Borders
Argentina shares the Southern Cone with Chile to the west and is bordered by Bolivia and Paraguay to the north, Brazil to the northeast, Uruguay and the South Atlantic Ocean to the east, and the Drake Passage to the south. The nation consists of twenty-three provinces and one autonomous city, Buenos Aires, which serves as its capital and largest city.
Demographics and Language
As of 2024, Argentina’s estimated population is 46.8 million. The official language is Spanish. Additionally, Guaraní is co-official in Corrientes, Quechua in Santiago del Estero, and Qom, Mocoví, and Wichí in Chaco.
Political Structure
Argentina operates as a federal presidential republic. The President serves as both the head of state and government. The country has a National Congress, which includes the Senate (upper house) and the Chamber of Deputies (lower house). The judiciary is led by the Supreme Court.
Historical Background
The earliest human presence in Argentina dates back to the Paleolithic period. The Inca Empire once controlled the northwest region. Spanish colonization began in the 16th century, leading to the establishment of the Viceroyalty of the Río de la Plata in 1776. Argentina declared independence from Spain on July 9, 1816. After a civil war, the country reorganized as a federation in 1880.
The 20th century saw political instability, with multiple coups d’état. The military dictatorship from 1976 to 1983, known as the “Dirty War,” was a period of state terrorism. Democracy was restored with the election of Raúl Alfonsín in 1983.
Economy and Global Standing
Argentina has the second-largest economy in South America. It is a developing country and a member of G-15 and G20. The country is a major non-NATO ally of the United States and a founding member of the United Nations, World Bank, World Trade Organization, Mercosur, Community of Latin American and Caribbean States, and the Organization of Ibero-American States.
Key Economic Indicators (2024)
- GDP (PPP): $1.354 trillion (30th globally)
- GDP per capita (PPP): $28,704 (69th globally)
- GDP (Nominal): $604.382 billion (24th globally)
- GDP per capita (Nominal): $12,814 (71st globally)
- Human Development Index (HDI): 0.849 (48th globally)
- Gini Index: 40.7 (medium inequality)
Largest Cities
Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires, the capital and largest city of Argentina, is a vibrant metropolis known for its rich cultural scene, historic architecture, and lively nightlife. It is the country’s political, economic, and cultural hub.
Córdoba
Córdoba is Argentina’s second-largest city and a major educational center, home to the country’s oldest university. It blends colonial history with modern infrastructure and has a strong industrial base.
Rosario
Rosario, located along the Paraná River, is a key port city and industrial hub. It is famous for being the birthplace of revolutionary leader Che Guevara and football star Lionel Messi.
Mendoza
Mendoza is the heart of Argentina’s wine industry and a gateway to the Andes Mountains. It attracts tourists for its wineries and outdoor activities, such as skiing and mountain climbing.
San Miguel de Tucumán
San Miguel de Tucumán is a historically significant city, as it is where Argentina declared independence in 1816. It is a major economic center in the northwest region.
La Plata
La Plata, the capital of Buenos Aires Province, is known for its well-planned urban layout and academic institutions. It is a cultural and scientific center with numerous museums and universities.
Mar del Plata
Mar del Plata is a popular coastal city famous for its beaches and tourism industry. It serves as a summer retreat for many Argentines and has a strong fishing and industrial sector.
Salta
Salta, located in the northwest, is known for its colonial architecture, beautiful landscapes, and rich indigenous heritage. It is a major tourism destination with historical significance.
San Juan
San Juan is a key wine-producing region and has a growing mining industry. It is also a center for renewable energy projects, particularly solar energy.
Santa Fe
Santa Fe, the capital of Santa Fe Province, is a commercial and agricultural hub. It plays a vital role in Argentina’s economy due to its location along the Paraná River, facilitating trade and transport.
Culture and Religion
Argentina has a rich cultural heritage influenced by European immigration, particularly from Italy and Spain. The majority of Argentines practice Christianity, with Catholicism being the dominant faith. As of 2019, the religious distribution was:
- 62.9% Catholic
- 15.3% Other Christian
- 20.5% No religion
- 1.3% Other religions
International Codes and Symbols
- Currency: Argentine Peso (ARS)
- Time Zone: UTC−03:00 (ART)
- Date Format: dd/mm/yyyy
- Calling Code: +54
- Internet TLD: .ar
Territorial Claims
Argentina claims sovereignty over the Falkland Islands, South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands, a part of Antarctica, and the Southern Patagonian Ice Field.
Argentina in Sports
Argentina has a strong sporting culture, particularly in football (soccer). The national team has won multiple FIFA World Cup titles, including in 1978, 1986, and 2022. The country has also excelled in basketball, rugby, and field hockey.
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