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Chile Overview
- Officially the Republic of Chile, located in western South America
- Southernmost country, bordering Peru, Bolivia, Argentina, and Drake Passage
- Population of 18.5 million (2024), area of 756,102 sq km
- Capital: Santiago; official language: Spanish
- Administers Pacific islands and claims part of Antarctica
Historical Context
- Colonized by Spain in the mid-16th century, defeating Inca rule
- Declared independence in 1818; stable authoritarian republic from 1830s
- Gained territory in the War of the Pacific (1879-83) by defeating Peru and Bolivia
Modern History
- 20th-century democratization; economic growth from copper mining
- Political turmoil led to a coup in 1973, establishing Pinochet's dictatorship
- Dictatorship ended in 1990, followed by center-left rule until 2010
Economic Status
- High-income economy, known for stability and sustainability
- Founding member of the UN, CELAC, and Pacific Alliance; joined OECD in 2010