Uruguay

Uruguay is a sovereign country in the southeastern region of South America. It covers about 176,000 square kilometers and borders Brazil to the north and northeast, Argentina to the west, with the Atlantic Ocean to the southeast and the Río de la Plata to the south. Its capital and largest city is Montevideo, a major port on the southern coast.

Indigenous Charrúa and Guarani peoples inhabited the territory before Spanish colonization. Uruguay gained independence in 1825 following the Cisplatine War and adopted its constitution in 1830. The country experienced a long period of stable democracy, interrupted by a military dictatorship from 1973 to 1985, after which civilian rule was restored.

Uruguay is a representative democratic republic. The president is elected for a five-year term and cannot seek immediate reelection. The General Assembly is bicameral, with the Chamber of Representatives and the Senate. The major parties include the National Party, the Colorado Party, and the Broad Front.

The economy is diversified, with services, agriculture, and manufacturing. Key exports include beef, soy, dairy, and cellulose. Uruguay has a strong welfare system and high human development. It is a member of Mercosur and maintains open trade with regional and global partners.

The population is about 3.5 million, with Spanish as the official language and Portuguese spoken near borders. The population is largely of European descent with a smaller Afro-Uruguayan community. The country has high literacy, strong education, and a rich cultural life centered on music, football, and festivals.

Uruguay participates in international organizations such as the United Nations, Mercosur, and the Organization of American States, and is known for political stability and respect for civil liberties.