Although it has one of the smallest populations in South America, because it is also one of the smallest countries on that continent, Uruguay's population density is twice that of South America as a whole. Almost half of the country's population lives in Montevideo, the capital city. Uruguay is governed by a republican democracy, and by an elected president and a legislative body comprised of a Senate and House of Representatives.
Rain falls during all the seasons, but more frequently during the winter months.
The government provides education free of charge to Uruguayan citizens. The country's greatest natural resource is its fertile land. Uruguay is known as a world leader in cattle and wool production. Despite its Roman Catholic religious heritage, more than one-third of all Uruguayans are professing agnostics or atheists. The resistant spiritual climate has contributed to social problems such as divorce and abortion.