Chile | Article about Chile by The Free Dictionary Chile | Article about Chile by The Free Dictionary Also found in: Dictionary , Thesaurus , Acronyms , Wikipedia . Chile (chĭl`ē, Span. chē`lā), officially Republic of Chile, republic (2005 est. pop. 15,981,000), 292,256 sq mi (756,945 sq km), S South America, west of the continental divide of the Andes Mts. Chile is bordered by Peru on the north, Bolivia on the northeast, Argentina on the east, and the Pacific Ocean on the west and south. Santiago Santiago , city (1990 est. pop. 4,395,000), central Chile, capital of Chile and of Metropolitana de Santiago region, on the Mapocho River. It is the political, commercial, and financial heart of the nation, although Valparaiso has been the seat of the Chilean congress since 1990. ..... Click the link for more information. is the capital and the largest city.

Land A long narrow strip of land (no more than c.265 mi/430 km wide) between the Andes and the Pacific Ocean, Chile stretches c.2,880 mi (4,630 km) from near lat. 18°S to Cape Horn (lat. 56°S), including at its southern end the Strait of Magellan and Tierra del Fuego Tierra del Fuego , [Span.,=land of fire], archipelago, 28,476 sq mi (73,753 sq km), off S South America, separated from the mainland by the Strait of Magellan. It consists of one large island (sometimes called simply Tierra del Fuego), five medium-sized islands, and numerous ..... Click the link for more information. , an island shared with Argentina. In the Pacific Ocean are Chile's several island possessions, including Easter Island Easter Island, Span. Isla de Pascua, Polynesian Rapa Nui, remote island (1992 pop.

2,770), 66 sq mi (171 sq km), in the South Pacific, c.2,200 mi (3,540 km) W of Chile, to which it belongs. ..... Click the link for more information. , the Juan Fernández Juan Fernández , group of small islands, S Pacific, c.400 mi (640 km) W of Valparaiso, Chile. They belong to Chile and are constitutionally a special territory; they are administered as a part of Valparaiso prov. ..... Click the link for more information. islands, and the Diego Ramírez islands. Chile also claims a sector of Antarctica. The country is composed of three distinct and parallel natural regions—from east to west, the Andes, the central lowlands, and the Coast Ranges. The Chilean Andes contain many high peaks and volcanoes; Ojos del Salado (22,539 ft/6,870 m high) is the second highest point in South America. Chile is located along an active zone in the earth's crust and experiences numerous earthquakes, some of great magnitude.

The rivers of Chile are generally short and swift-flowing, rising in the well-watered Andean highlands and flowing generally west to the Pacific Ocean; the Loa and Baker rivers are the longest, but those in the central portion of the country are much more important because of their use for irrigation and power production. The climate, which varies from hot desert in the north through Mediterranean-type in the central portion to the cool and humid marine west coast type in the south, is influenced by the cold Peruvian (or Humboldt) Current along the coast of N Chile and by the Andes. Precipitation increases southward; the desert in the north is practically rainless, while S Chile receives abundant precipitation throughout the year. However, along the coast of N Chile high humidity and dense fogs modify the desert climate. The Andes are an orographic barrier, and the western slopes and the peaks receive much precipitation; permanently snowcapped mountains are found along Chile's length. In N Chile is the southern portion of the extensive desert zone of W South America.

It is occupied mainly by the sun-baked Desert of Atacama Atacama Desert , arid region, c.600 mi (970 km) long, N Chile, extending south from the border of Peru. The desert itself, c.2,000 ft (610 m) above sea level, is a series of dry salt basins flanked on the W by the Pacific coastal range, averaging c. ..... Click the link for more information. , which, toward the south, gradually becomes a semiarid steppe with limited vegetation. The barren landscape of the north extends from the coast to the Andes, where snowcapped peaks tower above the desert. The Loa River is N Chile's only perennial stream. The region's scanty population is concentrated along the coast and in oases; the ports of Arica Arica , city (1992 pop. 170,064), N Chile, on the Pacific Ocean, just south of the Peruvian border and at the northern limit of the Atacama Desert. Peru ceded Arica to Chile after the War of the Pacific (see Pacific, War of the). ..... Click the link for more information.

, Iquique Iquique , city (1990 est. pop. 148,500), capital of Iquique prov., N Chile. A port on the Pacific, it exports nitrates and ore from the Atacama Desert. The city, founded in the 16th cent. ..... Click the link for more information. , and Antofagasta Antofagasta , city (1992 pop. 226,749), capital of Antofagasta region, N Chile, a port on the Pacific Ocean. Antofagasta was founded by Chileans in 1870 to exploit nitrates in the Atacama Desert, then under Bolivian administration. ..... Click the link for more information. (the chief link between Bolivia and the Pacific), the mining towns of Calama and Coplapó, and the industrial town of La Serena La Serena , city (1990 est. pop. 105,600), capital of Coquimbo region, N central Chile, on the Elqui River. A commercial and agricultural center in a region of orchards and vineyards, it is a popular resort. .....

Click the link for more information. are the chief population centers. The people of the region are almost totally dependent on supplies from the outside. N Chile, the economic mainstay of the nation, is rich in a variety of minerals, including copper, nitrates, iron, manganese, molybdenum, gold, and silver. Chuquicamata Chuquicamata , former town, Antofagasta region, N Chile, on the western slopes of the Andes. At an elevation of 10,435 ft (3,181 m), the location is the site of the world's largest copper mines. The extensive open-pit mining of the region dates to 1915. ..... Click the link for more information. , one of the world's largest copper-mining centers, long produced much of Chile's annual output, but the mine at Escondida now surpasses it. The middle portion of the country, roughly between lat. 30°S and 38°S, has a Mediterranean-type climate and fertile soils, and is the nation's most populous and productive region as well as the political and cultural center.

It contains Chile's largest cities—Santiago, Valparaiso Valparaiso , Span. Valparaíso [Span.,=vale of paradise], city (1992 pop. 276,737), capital of Valparaiso region, central Chile. It is the chief port of Chile and the terminus of a trans-Andean railroad. ..... Click the link for more information. (the seat of the Chilean congress), and Concepción Concepción , city (1990 est. pop. 306,464), capital of Bío-Bío region, S central Chile, near the mouth of the Bío-Bío River. It is an industrial and commercial center and Chile's third largest city. ..... Click the link for more information. . Mineral deposits (in particular copper, coal, and silver) are found in central Chile, and the rivers, especially the Bío-Bío, have been harnessed to generate electricity; hydroelectricity is responsible for 70% of Chile's power.

The region, the most highly industrialized section of Chile, produces a large variety of manufactured products, especially in and around Santiago, Concepción, and Valparaiso (which is also Chile's chief port). Between the Andes and the Coast Ranges is the Vale of Chile, a long valley divided into basins by Andean spurs. The valley is the heart of the republic, having the highest population density and the highest agricultural and industrial output. S Chile, extending from the Bío-Bío River to Cape Horn, is cold and humid, with dense forests, heavy rainfall, snow-covered peaks, glaciers, and islands. Sections of this region, which is in the direct path of moist westerly winds, receive more than 100 in. (254 cm) of precipitation annually. Because of subsidence of the earth's crust, the Coast Ranges and the central lowlands have been partially submerged, forming the extensive archipelago of S Chile, an area of craggy islands (notably Chiloé Chiloé , island (3,241 sq mi/8,394 sq km), a part of Los Lagos region, off S Chile.

It is separated from the mainland by the Corcovado and Ancud gulfs and the Chacao Channel; the waters around the island are used as nursery by blue whales. ..... Click the link for more information. ), numerous channels, and deep fjords. The Chilean lake district is a noted resort area. Although all of S Chile is forested, only the drier northern part has exploitable timber resources; Puerto Montt Puerto Montt , city (1992 pop. 130,730), capital of Los Lagos region, S central Chile, a port on Ancud Gulf, an inlet of the Pacific Ocean. It is the southern terminus of Chile's mainland railroads and the starting point for navigation through the inland waterways and among the ..... Click the link for more information. and Temuco Temuco , city (1990 est. pop. 211,700), capital of Araucania region, S central Chile, on the Cautín River. It is a commercial city dealing in cattle, lumber, wheat, and fruit. ..... Click the link for more information. are major timber-handling centers.

The rest of the region is a wilderness of midlatitude rain forest, which has been extensively logged. Pollution and erosion have added to the environmental threat. Because of the climate, agriculture is limited; oats and potatoes are the chief crops. Livestock raising (cattle and pigs) is an important activity. A portion of extreme S Chile lies in the rain shadow of the Andes and is covered by natural grasslands; extensive sheep grazing is carried on, with wool, mutton, and skins the chief products. Cattle are also raised. This area also yields petroleum. Valdivia Valdivia, city (1990 est. pop. 113,500), capital of Valdivia prov., S central Chile, on the Valdivia River. It is a leading commercial and industrial center. Founded in 1552, it was a fortress in the defense against the Araucanians and was a royalist center during the war of ..... Click the link for more information. , a port on the Pacific Ocean, is the fourth largest industrial center of Chile; Punta Arenas Punta Arenas , city (1990 est. pop.

120,000), capital of Magallanes y La Antartica Chilena region, S Chile, on the Strait of Magellan, the world's southernmost major city. Punta Arenas was founded in 1849 to maintain Chile's claim to the strait. ..... Click the link for more information. on the Strait of Magellan is the world's southernmost city. People The majority of Chile's population is mestizo, a result of frequent intermarriage between early Spanish settlers and indigenous inhabitants. Many Chileans are also of German, Italian, Irish, British, or Yugoslav ancestry. Three small indigenous groups are still distinguishable—the Araucanians of central Chile (the largest and long the strongest group), the Changos of N Chile, and the Fuegians of Tierra del Fuego. Chile is predominantly urban, with more than a third of the total population concentrated in and around Santiago and Viña Del Mar. Nearly 90% of the people are at least nominally Roman Catholic. Spanish is the country's official language. Economy Chile's economy is based on the export of minerals, which account for about half of the total value of exports.

Copper is the nation's most valuable resource, and Chile is the world's largest producer. Agriculture is the main occupation of about 15% of the population; it accounts for about 6% of the national wealth, and produces less than half of the domestic needs. The Vale of Chile is the country's primary agricultural area; its vineyards are the basis of Chile's wine industry. Grapes, apples, pears, onions, wheat, corn, oats, peaches, garlic, asparagus, and beans are the chief crops. Livestock production includes beef and poultry. Sheep raising is the chief pastoral occupation, providing wool and meat for domestic use and for export. Fishing and lumbering are also important economic activities. Chile's industries largely process its raw materials and manufacture various consumer goods. The major products are copper and other minerals, processed food, fish meal, iron and steel, wood and wood products, transportation equipment, and textiles. The dependence of the economy on copper prices and the production of an adequate food supply are two of Chile's major economic problems. Chile's main imports are petroleum and petroleum products, chemicals, electrical and telecommunications equipment, industrial machinery, vehicles, and natural gas.

In addition to minerals, it also exports fruit, fish and fish products, paper and pulp, chemicals, and wine. The chief trading partners are the United States, China, Brazil, Argentina, and South Korea. Government Chile is governed under the constitution of 1981 as amended. It is a multiparty democracy with a directly elected president who serves a four-year term (six-year prior to the constitutional amendments of 2005). The president may not be elected to consecutive terms. The bicameral legislature consists of a 38-seat Senate, whose members are elected to serve eight-year terms, and a 120-seat Chamber of Deputies, whose members are elected for four years. Members of both houses are elected from two-seat districts. Administratively, Chile is divided into 13 regions. History Early History Before the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th cent., the Araucanians had long been in control of the land in the southern part of the region; in the north, the inhabitants were ruled by the Inca empire.

Diego de Almagro Almagro, Diego de , c.1475–1538, Spanish conquistador, a leader in the conquest of Peru. A partner of Francisco Pizarro, he took part in the first (1524) and second (1526–28) expeditions and in the bloody subjugation of the Incas after 1532. ..... Click the link for more information. , who was sent by Francisco Pizarro from Peru to explore the southern region, led a party of men through the Andes into the central lowlands of Chile but was unsuccessful (1536) in establishing a foothold there. In 1540, Pedro de Valdivia Valdivia, Pedro de , c.1500–1554, Spanish conquistador, conqueror of Chile. One of Francisco Pizarro's best officers in the conquest of Peru, educated, energetic, somewhat less cruel and avaricious than his fellow conquerors, Valdivia obtained permission from Pizarro to ..... Click the link for more information.

marched into Chile and, despite stout resistance from the Araucanians, founded Santiago (1541) and later established La Serena, Concepción, and Valdivia. After an initial period of incessant warfare with the natives, the Spanish succeeded in subjugating the indigenous population. Although Chile was unattractive to the Spanish because of its isolation from Peru to the north and its lack of precious metals (copper was discovered much later), the Spanish developed a pastoral society there based on large ranches and haciendas worked by indigenous people; the yields were shipped to Peru. During the long colonial era, the mestizos became a tenant farmer class, called inquilinos; although technically free, most were in practice bound to the soil. During most of the colonial period Chile was a captaincy general dependent upon the viceroyalty of Peru, but in 1778 it became a separate division virtually independent of Peru. Territorial limits were ill-defined and were the cause, after independence, of long-drawn-out boundary disputes with Peru, Bolivia, and Argentina.

The movement toward independence began in 1810 under the leadership of Juan Martínez de Rozas Martínez de Rozas, Juan , 1759–1813, Chilean revolutionist, b. Mendoza, Argentina. A lawyer and scholar, he was a leading instigator of revolutionary ideas. ..... Click the link for more information. and Bernardo O'Higgins O'Higgins, Bernardo , 1778–1842, South American revolutionary and ruler (1817–23) of Chile; illegitimate son of Ambrosio O'Higgins. He was chosen in 1813 to replace José Miguel Carrera as revolutionary leader. ..... Click the link for more information. . The first phase (1810–14) ended in defeat at Rancagua Rancagua , city (1990 est. pop. 190,400), capital of Libertador General Bernardo O'Higgins region, central Chile, in a fertile valley among the Andean foothills. One of Chile's largest copper mines (El Teniente) is nearby. ..... Click the link for more information.

, largely because of the rivalry of O'Higgins with José Miguel Carrera Carrera, José Miguel , 1785–1821, Chilean revolutionist. With his brothers, Juan José and Luis, he overthrew the revolutionary junta headed by Martínez de Rozas in 1813 and dominated Chile until replaced by Bernardo O'Higgins later that year. ..... Click the link for more information. and his brothers. In 1817, José de San Martín San Martín, José de , 1778–1850, South American revolutionist, b. Yapeyú, in present-day Argentina. After service with the Spanish army in Europe, he returned (1812) to join the revolution against Spain in his native country. ..... Click the link for more information. , with incredible hardship, brought an army over the Andes from Argentina to Chile. The following year he won the decisive battle of Maipú Maipú , battlefield, central Chile, a few miles S of Santiago. On Apr. 5, 1818, San Martín routed the Spanish royalist army at Maipú and assured Chilean independence.

The victory made possible his liberating expedition to Peru. ..... Click the link for more information. over the Spaniards. The New Nation O'Higgins, who had been chosen supreme director, formally proclaimed Chile's independence Feb. 12, 1818, at Talca and established a military autocracy that characterized the republic's politics until 1833; O'Higgins ruled Chile from 1818 until 1823, when strong opposition to his policies forced him to resign. During this time the British expatriot Lord Cochrane, commanding the Chilean navy, cleared (1819–20) the coast of Spanish shipping, and in 1826 the remaining royalists were driven from Chiloé island, their last foothold on Chilean soil. The colonial aristocracy and the clergy had been discredited because of royalist leanings. The army, plus a few intellectuals, established a government devoid of democratic forms. Yet with the centralistic constitution of 1833, fashioned largely by Diego Portales Portales, Diego , 1793–1837, Chilean statesman.

Founder of constitutional order and of the conservative regime in Chile, he was general minister (1830–31) and minister of war and marine (1831–32, 1835–37). ..... Click the link for more information. on Chile's particular needs, a foundation was laid for the gradual emergence of parliamentary government and a long period of stability. During the administrations of Manuel Bulnes Bulnes, Manuel , 1799–1866, president of Chile (1841–51). He served in the revolt against Spain and commanded the victorious Chilean forces at the battle of Yungay (1839), where the Peru-Bolivia confederation of Andrés Santa Cruz was destroyed. ..... Click the link for more information. (1841–51) and Manuel Montt Montt, Manuel , 1809–80, president of Chile (1851–61). From a poverty-stricken childhood he rose to become one of Chile's most notable jurists. He held many prominent academic and governmental posts, distinguishing himself as minister of education. ..... Click the link for more information.

(1851–61) the country experienced governmental reform and material progress. The war of 1866 between Peru and Spain involved Chile and led the republic to fortify its coast and build a navy. Chileans obtained the right to work the nitrate fields in the Atacama, which then belonged to Bolivia. Trouble over the concessions led in 1879 to open war (see Pacific, War of the Pacific, War of the, 1879–84, war between Chile and the allied nations, Peru and Bolivia; also called the Chile–Peruvian War. The trouble began when President Hilarión Daza of Bolivia rescinded (Feb. ..... Click the link for more information. ). Chile was the victor and added valuable territories taken from Bolivia and Peru; a long-standing quarrel also ensued, the Tacna-Arica Controversy Tacna-Arica Controversy , 1883–1929, dispute between Chile and Peru. It arose from provisions of the Treaty of Ancón (1883), which ended the War of the Pacific (see Pacific, War of the). ..... Click the link for more information.

, which was finally settled in 1929. Chile also became involved in serious border troubles with Argentina; it was as a sign and symbol of the end of this trouble that the Christ of the Andes Christ of the Andes, statue of Jesus commemorating a series of peace and boundary treaties between Argentina and Chile. Dedicated Mar. 13, 1904, it stands in Uspallata Pass, high in the Andes, on the Argentine-Chilean boundary. ..... Click the link for more information. was dedicated in 1904. With the exploitation of nitrate and copper by foreign interests, chiefly the United States, prosperity continued. The Transandine Railway was completed in 1910 (closed 1982), and many more railroads were built. Industrialization, which soon raised Chile to a leading position among South American nations, was begun. Meanwhile, internal struggles between the executive and legislative branches of the government intensified and resulted (1891) in the overthrow of José Balmaceda Balmaceda, José , 1840–91, president of Chile (1886–91).

A leader of a liberal, anticlerical group, he was sent as minister (1878) to Argentina, where he successfully prevented Argentina from entering the War of the Pacific. ..... Click the link for more information. . A congressional dictatorship (with a figurehead president and cabinet ministers appointed by the congress) controlled the government until the constitution of 1925, which provided for a strong president. Former president Arturo Alessandri Alessandri, Arturo , 1868–1950, president of Chile (1920–25, 1932–38). The 1920 presidential candidate of the Liberal Alliance, a coalition of all the enemies of the conservatives, Alessandri was elected on a reform platform. ..... Click the link for more information. (who had instituted a program of labor reforms during his tenure from 1920 to 1924, and who commanded widespread popular support) was recalled (1925) as a caretaker until elections were held. Radicals vs.

Conservatives Although Chile enjoyed economic prosperity between 1926 and 1931, it was very hard hit by the world economic depression, largely because of its dependence on mineral exports and fluctuating world markets. Large-scale unemployment also had occurred after World War I when the nitrate market collapsed. The rise of the laboring classes was marked by unionization, and there were many Marxists who advocated complete social reform. The struggle between radicals and conservatives led to a series of social experiments and to counterattempts to suppress the radicals (especially the Communists) by force. During Arturo Alessandri's second term (1932–38) a measure of economic stability was restored; however, he turned to repressive measures and alienated the working classes. A democratic-leftist coalition, the Popular Front, took power after the elections of 1938. Chile broke relations with the Axis (1943) and declared war on Japan in 1945. Economic stability, the improvement of labor conditions, and the control of Communists were the chief aims of the administration of Gabriel González Videla, who was elected president in 1946.

He ruled with the support of the Communists until 1948, when he gained the support of the Liberal party and outlawed the Communists. His efforts, as well as those of his successors, Carlos Ibáñez del Campo (1952–58) and Jorge Alessandri (1958–64), were hampered by chronic inflation and repeated labor crises. In the 1964 presidential election (in which Eduardo Frei Montalva Frei Montalva, Eduardo Nicanor , 1911–82, president of Chile (1964–70). A lawyer and editor, he was a founder (1938) of the National Falange, an independent party based on progressive Christian principles, which in 1957 became the core of the new Christian Democratic ..... Click the link for more information. was elected) and in the 1965 congressional elections, the Christian Democratic party won overwhelming victories over the Socialist-Communist coalition. Frei made advances in land reform, education, housing, and labor.

Under his so-called Chileanization program, the government assumed a controlling interest in U.S.-owned copper mines while cooperating with U.S. companies in their management and development. Allende, Pinochet, and the Restoration of Democracy In 1970, Salvador Allende Gossens Allende Gossens, Salvador , 1908–73, president of Chile (1970–73). A physician, he helped found the Chilean Socialist party in 1933, was minister of health (1939–42) and president of the senate (1965–69). ..... Click the link for more information. , head of the Popular Unity party, a coalition of leftist political parties, won a plurality of votes in the presidential election and became the first Marxist to be elected president by popular vote in Latin America. Allende, in an attempt to turn Chile into a socialist state, nationalized many private companies, instituted programs of land reform, and, in foreign affairs, sought closer ties with Communist countries.

Widespread domestic problems, including spiraling inflation, lack of food and consumer goods, stringent government controls, and opposition from some sectors to Allende's programs, led to a series of violent strikes and demonstrations. The problems were aggravated by efforts by the United States, which strongly opposed Allende, to undermine Chile's economy in an attempt to destabilize its politics. As the situation worsened, the traditionally neutral Chilean military began to pressure Allende; he yielded to some of their demands and appointed military men to several high cabinet positions. In Sept., 1973, with covert American support, the armed forces staged a coup during which Allende died by his own hand; it also led to the execution, detention, or expulsion from Chile of thousands of people. Gen. Augusto Pinochet Ugarte Pinochet Ugarte, Augusto , 1915–2006, president and dictator of Chile (1973–90). An army general who served as chief of staff (1972–73) and commander of the army (1973), he led the coup that overthrew socialist president Salvador Allende (Sept., 1973). .....

Click the link for more information. took control of the country. The economy continued to deteriorate, even though the government sought to return private enterprise to Chile by denationalizing many industries and by compensating businesses taken over by the Allende government. In 1974, Pinochet became the undisputed leader of Chile, assuming the position of head of state, and in 1977 he abolished all political parties and restricted human and civil rights. Unemployment and labor unrest grew, although the economy improved steadily between 1976 and 1981 with the help of foreign bank loans and an increase in world copper prices. In the early 1980s, the country was plagued by a recession and foreign debt grew significantly, but the economy leveled off late in the decade. The 1981 constitution guaranteed elections in 1989, and in the 1980s political parties began to re-form despite Pinochet's opposition. In Oct., 1988, the electorate voted against the extension of Pinochet's term to 1997.

In 1989, Patricio Aylwin Azócar Aylwin Azócar, Patricio , 1918–2016, president of Chile (1990–94). A lawyer and the son of a Chilean supreme court president, Aylwin was a founder of the Christian Democratic party in 1957 and served as a senator (1965–73). ..... Click the link for more information. , a member of the Christian Democratic party who headed a coalition of 17 center and left parties, was elected president by popular vote. However, under the military-drafted constitution, Pinochet remained head of the army. Under Aylwin, Chile again turned toward democracy; the country's economy strengthened, as its exports were increased and its debt lowered. In 1994, Eduardo Frei Ruiz-Tagle, the son of Allende's predecessor, a Christian Democrat, and the leader of another center-left coalition, became president. Frei's free-market policies led to a massive flow of foreign investment. Pinochet stepped down as head of the army in 1998 and was made a senator for life.

Later that year, during a visit to London, Pinochet was arrested and held for possible extradition to Spain, on charges stemming from his repressive regime; he was released for health reasons and returned to Chile in Mar., 2000. Falling copper prices, exacerbated by an Asian economic crisis, caused economic and social problems in 1998 and 1999. Punta Arenas 1914 | Scottish Tartans Authority Hong Kong Punta Arenas 1914 This is a lengthy report thought to be from the Oban Times of 1914. It contains intesting snippets on Scottish shepherds and the growing wool trade in Chile at that time. Punta Arenas Now once more on dry land - at home again - I can take a look back to this city in embryo, this Punta Arenas, the most primitive beginning of a city I know, and can hope to say something that may interest readers. .

"Because it's the grub that makes the .butterfly, was an answer to some old riddle of childhood's days -well, this Punta Arenas is now the grub that ere long will be transformed into a .butterfly city, with parks, palaces and towers, the haunt of middlemen and of the unproductive classes; the home of officials and spenders; headquarters for navies and armies, mashers and gamblers, priests, lawyers and money-dealers. But it is only a grub now, the butterfly existence seen dimly as a future, while-the subsequent decadence can merely be inferred from the lessons of history. From these lessons we learn that at first prosperity comes by cities, but then goes by them. At this time Punta Arenas is only in the good, grub, or chrysalis stage, worth going to dwell in. This hitherto prosperity is the work of Englishmen and Scotsmen, chafingly called "Gringoes" by the Chilenos, and a misfortune is that English and Scotch interests are as yet unrepresented on the spot. The sooner the Foreign office looks after British interests in Magellanes the better.

German rivalry abroad is not a rivalry to play with, far less to foster. The Chili Government have wisely enacted that Punta Arenas shall be a free port,' free as air, free from the very semblance of taxation, with this very natural result that the place is 'lashing along' with marvellous rapidity; building lots are given away for nothing the only obligation being to build or put up a house of any kind within a year. The town has doubled in the last five years, indeed its progress under free port conditions are first rate - very promising. It seems certain to become the depot of the new land industry, an industry now advancing by leaps and bounds: the promenader through the grass-grown streets, if he tumbles over tree stumps, yet walks veritably on gold, for the soil i is alluvia, golden all around, and the not far off Cordiller as must sooner or later yield the shining metal in bulk. Coal has recently been discovered quite at hand, and in the matter of water carriage, 600,000 tons of shipping pass through the Straits of Magellan yearly. All things work together for the advancement of Punta Arenas.

; Now Chilian Patagonia welcomes Scotsmen. Wages are high beyond belief, and the chances for the well doer, for the abstainer from excess in drink, for the man and, indeed, woman of character are great - are abnormal. Any one can go, with just a little bit of an effort; any one can secure an easy, well-paid situation with 'the minimum of energy and of venture. Married couples are especially 'desired out there; domestic servants of all kind; only this ought to be noted, that any lady under the .age of a grannie must agree not to marry just exactly when she lands, she must abide for a year or two in spinsterhood and that gives her a little time to look round and choose -well. Let it not be supposed though that a complete paradise has opened. There is a shadow of a shade of pluck required of course, and people who are only fit for the poorhouse may fail in Patagonia, but ordinary mortals are sure to succeed and be as happy as ordinary mortals can expert to be. The climate is like our own North-West climate, only drier, and the life led is West Highland life produced under happier auspices.

Not one of the many Highlanders here that I had the pleasure of .meeting complained to me, but many were furious at the apathy of the stay-at-homes they had left behind. The Scotch shepherds who have done well in the Falklands, serving others, first scented Patagonia and crossed over there, notably one Greenshields. A certain number of capitalists have joined in but the shepherds who knew their trade and their stock have done best; their scarcity of capital has been made up for by technical knowledge. The sole produce of these "camps" or estancias has hitherto been wool; but-this season, for the first time, Messrs Wood and Waldron sent in frozen mutton from Punta Delgada. I shall not be accused of advertising on the sly if I mention that Robertson's Highland sheep dip is selling well out in these parts.. Naturally anxious to hear good things about an Oban industry I yet made impartial inquiry and the dip is very popular. One of its most ardent champions, Mr. Cameron of Picket Harbour, " uses none other, and the great eatanciero, Mr.

Braun told me the morning I left that he had sent for 15 tons by the home-going mail. Mr. Braun is at the head of the latest concession in Tierra del Fuego, a concession of one million hectares. Now, a hectare is about 2 ¼ acres, and the mention of this, the latest "taking up," will give the home reader some idea of the force of the boom when he thinks over the stocking and exploiting-of two millions two hundred and fifty thousand acres! Over on the Tierra side there is still some trouble with the poor Indians. The morning after our arrival a small trading cutter came in. reporting a fight and the loss of one of her crew of four. The Chilian ship Condor going to search did not find the man, but picked up. two dead Indians, one with four bullets in him. The Patigonian giants are not gigantic, but are certainly tall; they give you the impression of being the last remains of a once fine people - a people whose time to "quit" has come. Solid, massive, peaceful, silly and. a little cowardly, they gravitate surely to extinction.

The mighty test for all incapables, the certain eliminator of the unworthy - the liquor test finds them helpless. They cannot resist the fire water of the pale faces, of their destroying white rivals at Sandy Point. There are a good many whites incapable and unworthy too, who are being tried in the same test tube and found wanting - but I may write about Sandy Point again before closing up the whole subject. I have alluded to a gold seeker; there is plenty of gold over both Tierra del and Patagonia, but not in bulk or in bed, only washable gold. It was told me as a secret that quartz gold had just been found near Laguna Blanca about 120 miles away from the colony. A Frenchman and two friends looking for ucamp" found the gold accidentally, and stuff visible to the naked eye. They worked quietly all summer before being discovered. Then the word went round and reached me and unfortunately that artist cook of ours, Senor Torres who, kicking over his pots and pans, girded up his loins and "vamoosed." After trespassing on the Yonge's kindness we spent a night with the Camerons at Picket Harbour. He and Mrs.

Cameron are both from Lochaber and were to us Highland hosts indeed. Their warm, red and buff commodious house lies snugly in the corner of a lovely bay of sand, swarming with tame wild ducks and full of fish. Mr. Cameron in the early morning let out six prize Leicesters just recovering from their voyage, very well bred sheep. We were shown over the wool shed, saw the press for baling and outside the great dipper and the shearing plant. The return to Sandy Point was a distress, and most have tried Mr. Scott's patience, for it was difficult to get along at anything like pace. Musing one day after words on my want of preparedness for such a long ride I saw in front of the Docherty palace a Gaucho preparing to start. He first took a deal of care to girth up the piebald nag - the Indians love piebalds - and looked all round the riding gear. The nag itself, though piebald, seemed a workman with the distinctive large, ugly, intellectual head of the horse of these regions.

A lasso was beautifully coiled on the cantle, the white sheep skin on the saddle looked woolly soft, All being carefully, in no way hurriedly, arranged, the rider swung himself with a light easy movement on board and away both went - the horse, at the smallest possible circus canter, the best pace for a long journey. And I envied that Gaucho for that he did the business property, and would ride anything that day under a hundred miles without trouble and without losing leather. Punta Arenas (literally in Spanish: "Sandy Point") is the most prominent settlement on the Strait of Magellan. Due to its location and size it is sometimes considered the southernmost city in the world. It is the capital of the Magallanes y la Antártica Chilena Region, Chile. The city itself was officially renamed Magallanes in 1927, but in 1938 it got back the name of Punta Arenas. If you would like to give a one-off gift then please use the link below.

Contact c/o J & H Mitchell, 51 Atholl Road, Pitlochry, PH16 5BU Tel: 01764 655 444 Guided Tours of Argentina & Chile with Iguazu Falls | Adventures Abroad To book this tour, please refer to the sidebar ► Day 1 Arrival in Buenos Aires Arrival in Buenos Aires. Nearly 40% of the country's 33 million citizens live in Gran Buenos Aires (Greater Buenos Aires), which at first makes the city almost as imposing as New York or London. However, after a brief orientation you will find that the compact city centre is accessible and easily explored on foot, by bus, taxi and underground. Overnight in Buenos Aires. Meal plan: Dinner Day 2 Buenos Aires - Iguazu Falls This morning we transfer to the airport for our two hour flight to Iguazu Falls. After transferring to our hotel we have time to relax and have lunch. This afternoon we have a guided tour of the falls on the Argentine side (upper balconies). Here we are at the confluence of the River Iguazu and the deep flowing Parana.

This place is known as the "Hito de las Tres Fronteras" because at this point Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay converge. The national park here is home to more than 21,000 plant species and 400 bird species. The waterfalls disgorge 1700 cubic m (1,853 cubic yards) of water per second from a height of 70 m (230 feet) in 275 different falls, most of which are in Argentina. On the frontier with Brazil there is a gully -- La Garganta del Diablo (The Devil's Throat) which is 150 m (490 feet) wide and 700 m (2,290 feet) long. Overnight at Iguazu Falls. Meal plan: Breakfast and Dinner Day 3 Iguazu Falls - Buenos Aires You have a half-day free to revisit the paths along the upper and lower parts of the falls (optional cost) and the path that goes along the river from the observation point of the Bosetti Falls to the quay.

The plunging falls throw a fine drizzle up to 30 m (98 feet) into the air, weaving countless rainbows in the sun. Be sure to take rain-proof clothing. The United Nations has declared Iguazu Falls a protected area of worldwide importance. You can also take an optional boat ride to the base of the falls (extra cost), or the local bus to Iguazu Town where you can explore and observe where Argentine, Brazil, and Uruguay come together. You will need to be back in the hotel this afternoon to be ready for your transfer to the airport; please verify the check-out time from your hotel reception desk. Later this afternoon we fly to Buenos Aires and transfer to our hotel. Overnight in Buenos Aires. Meal plan: Breakfast and Dinner Day 4 Buenos Aires: City Tour Today we see the sights of this cosmopolitan city. In the early part of the 20th century, Argentina was one of the richest countries in the world. The grand public buildings of Buenos Aires reflect this opulent era. The city is known as the "Paris of South America" because of its wide boulevards and European-style architecture.

Buenos Aires was founded for the second time in 1580 by Juan de Garay, just north of Mendoza's encampment. In accordance with Spanish law, he laid out the large Plaza del Fuerte (Fortress Plaza). It acquired its present name of Plaza de Mayo after the month of revolution in 1810. Our tour focuses on the major public buildings. Catedral Metropolitana, built on the sight of the original colonial church was not completed until 1827. Not only is it considered a major religious landmark, but also a historic site of great importance. Here lies the tomb of Jose de San Martin, the man who (along with Simon Bolivar) liberated South America from Spanish rule in the early 1800's. The Plaza de Mayo is also home to Museo del Cabildo, the Presidential Palace (Casa Rosada), and the National Congress (Palacio del Congreso). We also visit the Recoleta Cemetery where Buenos Aires' richest citizens are buried in magnificent marble tombs elaborately decorated with statues. The most internationally-famous person buried here is "Evita" Peron.

While in BA, we will also visit La Boca neighbourhood, so named for its position at "the mouth" of the Riachuelo, and its role as the port of call for thousands of immigrants from Italy, Spain, and other European countries. Those settlers struggled, starved, hoped, and celebrated in this rough-and-tumble barrio. Today, one of the most photogenic and colourful parts of Buenos Aires, La Boca is the domain of the working class, bohemian artists, rabid soccer fans, and tango artists. Ask your Tour Leader about the possibility of seeing an optional Tango Show this evening. Overnight in Buenos Aires. Meal plan: Breakfast and Dinner Day 5 Buenos Aires: Continued Today we have a half-day WALKING tour. Our first stop is the Centro Naval, one of the city's most exquisite buildings and a masterpiece of cast stone architecture. It's not generally open to the public, but sometimes they let you into the circular lobby. The Kavanagh Building, at the time of its construction in 1936, was the tallest building in South America, standing at about 120 m (400 ft) with over 30 stories.

Designed as a residential structure, it took more than 16 years to sell the apartments in this Art Deco building. Palacio Paz is perhaps the most beautiful of the Beaux Arts mansions in Buenos Aires; the Circulo Militar looks plucked from the Loire Valley. It was the home of the Paz family and took almost 12 years to build; the patriarch who commissioned it died waiting. The General Jose de San Martin Monument celebrates General Jose de San Martin, who battled against Spain in the wars of independence and is known as the founder of the Argentine nation. The Palacio San Martin is another of the grand mansions that line Plaza San Martin, this was the home of the powerful Anchorenas family whose prestige dated to colonial times in Argentina. The Islas Malvinas-Falkland Islands Memorial honors the more than 700 Argentines who died in the war over the Islas Malvinas/Falkland Islands chain in the brief war with Great Britain in early 1982.

The Torre Monumental (British Clock Tower) is a 1916 gift from the British community in Buenos Aires, along with all other things British, was renamed in response to the Islas Malvinas/Falkland Islands War and is called the Argentine Big Ben by some. Decorated with British royal imperial symbols, the base was partly destroyed by an angry mob during an Islas Malvinas-Falkland Islands memorial service. Inside the tower you'll find a small Buenos Aires City Tourism Information Office. Retiro Station was opened in 1915 and was built with British technological assistance. Four British architects designed it, and the steel structure was made in Liverpool, England, and shipped to Argentina to be assembled. Our tour ends in the Galerias Pacifico in time for your lunch break. This is the most famous shopping mall in Buenos Aires, opened in 1891. The building was designed to recall the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan, with its long halls, glass cupola, and several tiers of shops. Overnight in Buenos Aires.

Meal plan: Breakfast and Dinner Day 6 Buenos Aires - Bariloche A direct flight from Buenos Aires brings us to Bariloche, located in the heart of the Lake District. The Nahuel Huapi National Park extends over 750,000 hectares, of which 330,000 is a National Reserve. Situated in the southwest of Neuquen Province and northwest of Rio Negro, it stretches from the Patagonian steppes to the high Andes. On account of abundant rainfall and summer melt from snowfields and glaciers, there is a great number of lakes and also rivers that flow either to the Atlantic or the Pacific oceans. Lake Nahuel Huapi, covering an area of 60,000 hectares, is the largest in the area. This afternoon we visit the Francisco P. Moreno Patagonian Museum, inaugurated by National Parks in 1940. It is named after the famous explorer of the Andes and the Patagonian rivers, who donated the lands that were later transformed by the government into the first national park in Argentina. It has halls specializing in natural science, ethnography, pre-history and local and regional history. It also has a library and a bookstore.

Bariloche has a very strong Central European influence; most of the first settlers were of Swiss, German, or Northern Italian origin. These people gave the city its European style, with Swiss chalets, ceramics, chocolates, and neat shop windows. However something tells you that you are not in Europe; boats are seldom seen in the huge Nahuel Huapi Lake, the roads are swallowed up in the wilderness as soon as they leave the city and at night, there are no lights on the opposite shore of the lake. You will have time to explore the lakeside and to visit Bariloche town with it's chocolate shops and excellent visitors' centre. Overnight in the Bariloche area. Meal plan: Breakfast and Dinner Day 7 Bariloche Area: Small Circuit Today we have the classic half-day tour of the Bariloche region. We will get a general overview of the surrounding area along a 60 Km (40 mi) partial loop excursion, all on a paved road. Our outing heads westward from Bariloche on the highway to Llao Llao along the southern shore of Lake Nahuel Huapi. At Km 8, the road passes Playa Bonita, a small harbour and popular beach.

Cerro Campanario, the Belltower Hill, is at Km 18 (mile 12), where our bus may stop on the outward leg or when returning. The view from the top of this hill, reached after a seven minute chairlift ride, is the highlight of the trip. The Catedral Ski Village, at the base of the ski slopes, and part of the city of Bariloche, are visible from this spectacular 360 degree look-out. The tour continues toward St Eduard's chapel and the Llao Llao Hotel. It is after passing the hotel's golf course, at the 100 inch yearly rainfall boundary, that the Valdivian Rain Forest begins. This is a temperate rain forest, with vines canes and lush vegetation. Our tour continues through a thick beech forest surrounding the western Moreno Lake passing by the base of Lopez Mountain, a sheer 3650 m (12,000 ft) face of rock. We'll have a short stop further along the road for a breathtaking view high above Moreno Lake, the Puerto Panuelo Harbour, Victoria Island and smaller islands on the lake.

On the return trip, the road crosses the bridge between the Moreno lakes and then joins the main road back to Bariloche. Overnight in the Bariloche area. Meal plan: Breakfast and Dinner Day 8 Bariloche, Argentina - Lake Crossing - Puerto Varas, Chile The Andean Lakes Crossing is the most scenic way to travel from Argentina to Chile. This spectacular crossing of the Andes takes us through lakes and mountain passes from Bariloche to Puerto Varas, and occurs in a very well-orchestrated combination of boat and bus. Our luggage is handled for us -- you just sit back and enjoy the scenery. After breakfast we leave by bus to Puerto Panuelo, where we will board the ship to navigate to the Puerto Blest Port, where we will arrive at 11:30. From there we will travel by bus to the Puerto Alegre Port at 13:30 where we will embark to navigate further. We then board a bus that will take us across the border to Chile at an altitude of only 976 m (3,200 ft); we continue on to Peula from which we embark towards Petrohue, sailing on the Lago Todos los Santos.

Weather-permitting, we will have views of the Osorno Volcano, and the mountains, Puntiagudo and Tronador. Imposing views of the volcano Volcan Osorno y Calbuco dominate the landscape. At the Parque Nacional Vicente Perez Rosales, we will visit the Saltos del Petrohue Falls, capriciously-shaped volcanic rocks, bathed by emerald water falls. At 19:30 we arrive in Puerto Varas, the City of Flowers. Overnight in Puerto Varas. Meal plan: Breakfast and Dinner Day 9 Puerto Varas - Punta Arenas - Torres del Paine Today we fly to Punta Arenas and continue by road to Torres del Paine National Park. The Torres del Paine (Towers of Paine) are spectacular granite pillars which soar almost vertically more than 2000 m (6,000 feet) above the Patagonian landscape. The park in which the high peaks sit may be considered the finest national park in all of South America. With turquoise lakes, roaring waterfalls, rivers and creeks, dense forests and sprawling glaciers, this is an unequalled destination. Overnight at Torres del Paine.

Meal plan: Breakfast and Dinner Day 10 Torres del Paine National Park Today we spend the entire day at Torres del Paine National Park. Some say "Paine" come from the name of an early settler. Others say the name comes from an ancient Indigenous word meaning blue -- hearkening to the intense blue of the area's lakes. Whatever the name comes from or means, this is a spectacular park, comparable to Yellowstone or Yosemite in the US. Founded in 1959, Torres del Paine takes in 180,000 ha (450,000 acres). In 1978 UNESCO gave the park World Heritage status, recognizing it as a biosphere especially worthy of international recognition. The park is part of the Paine Massif, which lies east of the high central Andean spine. These medium high mountains emerge suddenly from the plains of the Patagonian steppes. The mountains are granite, capped by crumbly sedimentary rock that used to lie on the valley floor. Before the park was acquired by the Chilean government, it belonged to ranchers who overgrazed and also burned down forests to increase pasture area.

The park is still recovering from this devastation, but it's a chance to see what nature can do to fix itself if given a chance. The glaciers of the park are in quick retreat -- up to 17 m (56 ft) a year for the last 90 years, creating a fascinating study of plant succession and soil build-up from bare rock to forest. The flora of the park ranges from grassland to southern beech forests. Many parts of the park were too remote for the cattle ranchers and exist today in a pristine state. The animal stars of the park are the guanacos and the rheas. Rheas are an ostrich-like bird; guanacos are wild South American cameloids, related to the domesticated llama and alpaca. Native peoples hunted both across the plains, using every part for food and sheltering hide and feathers. When the Europeans came, the guanaco were slaughtered to make way for cattle, and almost became extinct. We will travel through the park in our coach stopping at various points of interest and scenic viewpoints. We will also have an opportunity to walk one of the many easy-going trails that afford expansive views of the mountains, glaciers, and waterfalls for which Patagonia is famous.

Overnight at Torres del Paine. Meal plan: Breakfast and Dinner Day 11 Torres del Paine, Chile - Calafate, Argentina Today we travel by road to El Calafate, a resort town on Lake Argentino situated at the entrance to Los Glaciares National Park. Overnight in Calafate. Meal plan: Breakfast and Dinner Day 12 Calafate: Perito Moreno Glacier & Glaciarium We leave the shores of Lago Argentino and ascend through sub-Antarctic forest which marks the gateway to Parque Nacional Los Glaciares. Its centrepiece is the Perito Moreno Glacier which, because of unusually favourable local conditions, is one of the world's few advancing glaciers. Huge icebergs on the glacier's 60 m (180 foot) high face calve and collapse into the Canal de los Tempanos as it advances about 100 m (300 feet) a year. The roar of the gigantic ice wall as it crashes into the surrounding channel is an unforgettable experience. The geography at the nose of the glacier is also unique, in that it is possible to stand on a hill with spectacular viewpoints directly opposite the huge imposing wall of ice.

The hope, of course, is to witness active calving, which results in a thunderous noise and oooo's and ahhhh's from its spectators. We will have plenty of time to stroll and enjoy fantastic views from every angle, and the unique plant and bird life. While in the Calafate area, we will also visit the Glaciarium, a modern interpretation glaciological centre, and one of the few glacier museums in the world. The understanding of glaciers and environmental awareness are our main subjects. The exhibits include models, dioramas, photographs, screens, interactive representations, and a 3D documentary. NOTE: Though weather may seem fine in Calafate, the weather near the glacier can be completely different. Generally the nose of Perito Moreno is characterized by cold wind and highly changeable conditions. You should be prepared with layered clothing and a warm hat. This afternoon we return to Calafate. Overnight in Calafate. Meal plan: Breakfast and Dinner Day 13 Calafate: Upsala Glacier This morning we depart early from our Calafate hotel to drive the short distance to the boat dock at Puerto Bandera at the western end of Lago Argentino.

Here we board our boat for a picturesque trip across the pristine, exquisite turquoise waters to the Upsala Glacier, the other famous glacier near Calafate, only accessible from the water. At fifty kilometers long, ten kilometers wide, and many hundred meters thick, it is classified as one of three major glaciers in the park. Visitors are greeted with breathtaking vistas of crystal blue ice meeting vast blue skies and towering Argentinean mountains in the background.* There are several outside decks that offer excellent views. Cold weather clothing is suitable today. * The closeness of our approach depends on winds and the number of icebergs in the vicinity. We return to Calafate late in the afternoon. Overnight in Calafate. Meal plan: Breakfast and Dinner Day 14 Calafate - Ushuaia & Tierra del Fuego National Park Today we fly to Ushuaia on the island of Tierra del Fuego. Ushuaia is considered the world's southernmost city. In 1520, Magellan passed through the strait that now bears his name, in search of a sea route to the spice islands of Asia.

The Yahgan Indians built the fires that inspired Europeans to give this region its name -- "The Land of Fire". At first, very little attention was paid to this rocky and glacial shoreline, and its indigenous Indian population. It was not until the demise of Spain's colonial domination of the region in the late 1800's, that other Europeans began settling here. Ushuaia lies on the north shore of the Beagle Channel, at the very heart of the archipelago, and just east of the Parque Nacional Tierra del Fuego. Since 1950, the town has played host to an important naval base, supporting Argentine claims in Antarctica. Ushuaia has one of the world's most dramatic settings: surrounding jagged glacial peaks rise from sea level to nearly 1500 m (4,500 ft). In 1870, the South American Missionary Society, a British-based organisation, made Ushuaia its first permanent outpost in the Fuego region. This afternoon will be spent in the Tierra del Fuego National Park.

Just a short drive from town, this pristine nature reserve is home to hundreds of species of birds, in addition to bountiful varieties of plant life. At Lapatoia Bay we reach the southern end of the Pan-American Highway, which starts in Alaska and runs all the way down through Canada, the USA, Central and South America. You will also have time to discover this interesting town. We suggest a visit to the old prison of Ushuaia located within the confines of the Naval base. The penitentiary was constructed by the prisoners themselves between 1902 and 1920. Now this impressive complex houses the Antarctic museum, the maritime museum, a modern art gallery as well as a restored wing of the prison, complete with cells inhabited by some of the infamous prisoners. Overnight in Ushuaia. Meal plan: Breakfast and Dinner Day 15 Ushuaia: Beagle Channel Cruise - Buenos Aires Today, weather permitting, we include a cruise on the Beagle Channel, named after the ship on which Darwin sailed through here in 1832. The island of Tierra del Fuego is divided between Argentina and Chile and the Beagle Channel forms part of the border between the two countries.

In addition to spectacular scenery, we should see many species of marine mammals and birds, including a penguin colony. Please note: As Tierra del Fuego is so close to the Antarctic Circle and surrounded by water, the weather here is extremely changeable hour by hour. In order to maximise our sightseeing, we may have to alter the sequence of our activities. Your Tour Leader will do his/her best to ensure that you see all the items listed on these days but, in the event of extreme weather, other activities may have to be substituted. Later today we fly back to Buenos Aires (possible late evening arrival). (Breakfast and lunch OR dinner at your Tour Leader's discretion). Overnight in Buenos Aires. Meal plan: Breakfast and Dinner Day 16 Departure

Question: Which Chilean city whose name comes from the Spanish for 'sandy point' is sometimes considered the southernmost city in the world?
Answer: Punta Arenas