Sheep raising is the major activity. Agriculture - major products are beef, corn, and wheat. The gaucho is the national symbol of Argentina. They are very independent and skilled horsemen. Manufacturing - Argentina is very industrialized.
Major products are food products, leather goods, electrical equipment, and textiles.
Petroleum is the most valuable mineral. Others include iron ore, lead, zinc, and uranium and are found in the Andes. 34 million people live mainly near Buenos Aires or in the Pampas. Influences of the Past - Spanish arrived in the 1500's from Chile. In 1816, general Jose de San Martin led the fight for independence.