Republic of Uruguay is a country in the southeastern region of South America. It borders Argentina to its west and Brazil to its north and east. Uruguay is home to an estimated 3.45 million people, of whom 1.8 million live in the metropolitan area of its capital and largest city, Montevideo. With an area of approximately 176,000 square kilometers (68,000 sq mi), Uruguay is geographically the second-smallest nation in South America.
Uruguay is regarded as one of the most socially advanced countries in Latin America. It ranks high on global measures of personal rights, tolerance, and inclusion issues. It is first in South America when it comes to press freedom, size of the middle class and prosperity. Uruguay is an important global exporter of combed wool, rice, soybeans, frozen beef, malt and milk. Nearly 95% of Uruguay's electricity comes from renewable energy, mostly hydroelectric facilities and wind parks.
But Uruguay has had a turbulent past. During the 16th and 17th centuries, Uruguay became a zone of contention between the Spanish and Portuguese empires. First the Portuguese controlled the area now know as Uruguay, then the Spanish had their chance. In 1811 Jose Artigas mounted a resistance and finally forced the Spanish out. That opened the door for the Portuguese from Brazil and Argentinians to claim Uruguay as a part of their territory. The turmoil that followed, lasted for many years. This was the start of the “Elephant in the Room” analogy that still lasts today. Previously it was historic mistrust that Uruguay had for these two massive giants surrounding it, today it is more economic mistrust - but unspoken.
The statue of the Hero of Uruguay - Jose Artigas. Located in the Plaza Independencia - Montevideo
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as I complete an 18 day tour of this beautiful country that has done very well in stepping out of the shadows of its history. I’ll be traveling to Montevideo the capital where 45% of the population lives, beautiful wineries, estancias (working farms), Punta del Diablo (beaches along Uruguay’s southern coast) and Punta del Este its famous resort area where celebrities from around the world come to play.
