Argentina

Capital: Buenos Aires

Argentina's political framework is a federal presidential representative democratic republic. Argentina is divided into 23 provinces and 1 autonomous city. The economy of Argentina is the second-largest national economy in South America. Argentina is located in southern South America and is the eighth-largest country in the world.

Geography: Argentina is a country in South America bordering the Southern Atlantic Ocean. Neighbouring countries include Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay and Uruguay. The Pampas is a vast fertile plain that covers a significant portion of Argentina. It is known for its fertile soil, which makes it ideal for agriculture and cattle grazing. The western border of Argentina is formed by the majestic Andes Mountains.

History: Before the arrival of Europeans, various indigenous groups inhabited the region, including the Mapuche, Guarani, and Quechua people. Argentina was colonized by the Spanish in the 16th century. Argentina declared its independence from Spain in 1816.

Flora and Fauna: In Patagonia, you can find shrubs like the calafate and the aromatic mate plant. The Andean region features unique vegetation, including cacti, bromeliads, and various species of orchids. The Pampas is known for its abundant birdlife, including species like the rhea, red ovenbird, and black-hooded sierra-finch. The Andean region is inhabited by condors, guanacos, and vicuñas. Patagonia is home to various marine mammals, such as sea lions and elephant seals.

Patagonia is a region known for its rugged landscapes and coastline.

The Gauchos, like the cowboys of the Prairie, look after cattle in an estancia.

Cultural Life: Argentina has a rich cultural life influenced by European, indigenous, and African traditions. Tango is the most iconic dance form associated with Argentina. It is known for its intricate footwork and connection between partners. Argentina has produced renowned writers and artists, including Jorge Luis Borges. Did You Know that Rabindranath Tagore visited the Argentine in 1924? Tagore's visit to Argentina provided him with the acquaintance of the Argentinean poet Victoria Ocampo, who indeed became one of his closest friends. Tagore, already a prolific writer and musician, was encouraged by Ocampo to explore the visual arts further.

Argentine cuisine is known for its love of meat, particularly beef, asado and empanadas (stuffed pastries). Mate, a traditional herbal tea, is also deeply ingrained in Argentine culture.

Festivals: The Carnival in Gualeguaychú and the National Grape Harvest Festival in Mendoza are popular events that showcase local traditions and attract visitors from around the world.

Food: Empanadas are stuffed pastries filled with a variety of ingredients such as cheese or vegetables. Milanesa is a breaded cutlet. It is often served with mashed potatoes or as a sandwich called "milanesa a la napolitana" topped with tomato sauce and cheese.

How to make vegetarian empanadas

Top 5 most beautiful cities to visit in Argentina

Sports: Soccer is by far the most popular sport in Argentina. The country has produced some of the world's greatest players, including Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi. Argentina is renowned for its excellence in polo. It has produced several top-ranked tennis players, including Guillermo Vilas and Gabriela Sabatini.

Memories of a champion: Gabriela Sabatini

Soccer is by far the most popular sport in Argentina

Time to Do

  • On an outline map of Argentina, mark and label the following:

    [a] The Pampas,

    [b] The neighbouring countries (Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay and Uruguay).

Reference

  1. “The Invention of Argentina" by Nicolas Shumway. This book provides a comprehensive exploration of Argentine history, identity, and cultural development.

  2. 10 facts about education in Argentina