Argentina - Geographical Curiosities, #2 - E-book - ePub

In terms of land size, Argentina is the second largest country in South America and the ninth largest country in the world. It may be found in the southern hemisphere and stretches all the way from the Andes mountains in the west to the Atlantic Ocean in the east. Because of its vastness and geographical diversity, the climate of the country varies drastically from one location to the next; for example, the climate in the north of the country is subtropical, while the climate in the south is subpolar. The climate in the middle region of Argentina is classified as moderate, whereas the climate in the western portion, which includes the Andes, is classified as cold and arid.
In addition, Argentina is home to a large number of rivers, such as the Paraná and the Colorado, as well as a large number of lakes, including Lake Buenos Aires. The distinct topography and climate of this area each play an important part in the development of the country's myriad ecosystems and animal life. In the pre-Columbian era, indigenous peoples including the Mapuche, Guarani, and Quechua lived in what is now Argentina. This time period is considered to be the beginning of Argentina's history.
Conquistadors from Spain began arriving in the area in the 16th century and establishing colonies, which eventually led to centuries of Spanish dominance. In the 19th century, after Argentina had fought a number of wars for independence, the country finally achieved its independence and became an independent nation. Throughout the course of the 20th century, the nation experienced both times of progress and stability as well as periods of political instability, tyranny, and economic upheaval. Today, Argentina is a democratic nation with a rich culture and history.
It is also well-known for its contributions to several fields of human endeavor, including the arts, literature, and sports.