Today, the states of South America are one of the most significant producers of minerals and agricultural products in the world. In addition, as in Africa, most countries specialize in the extraction of several types of minerals. This economic orientation is the result of the colonial past of the mainland.
From the history of the states of South America
Since ancient times, South America has been inhabited by Indian tribes (Incas, Quechua, Aymara, etc.). Scientists believe that the first people on the mainland appeared 17 thousand years ago. They came here from the territory of North America. In the first half of the 15th century Here the country of the Incas was formed. By the time Europeans discovered South America, they had created a strong state with developed agriculture. Other tribes at that time were still at a primitive level of development. With the discovery of South America, mainly Spaniards and Portuguese settled here. They founded first trading posts, and then colonies. The states of South America became independent at the beginning of the 19th century. They freed themselves from colonial oppression earlier than African countries, and therefore have a higher level of development.
South American states today
Today in South America there are 12 independent states. Most of their structure are republics. Also on the mainland there are 3 dependent territories. At the moment, all the states of South America are considered developing. The largest countries are located on the plains east. These are Brazil, Argentina and Venezuela. Andean countries (Chile, Peru, Colombia, Bolivia, Ecuador) are distinguished by large territories and diverse natural wealth. Argentina, Brazil and Chile are characterized by a fairly high level of economic development. Other countries by their nature are agro-industrial.
Brazil
Brazil is the largest state in South America. In its structure, it is a federal republic. Until 1822, Brazil was a colony of Portugal. The country ranks first on the mainland in terms of the development of extractive industries. Significant reserves of iron ore, gold, bauxite, manganese and other ore minerals are concentrated here. Well-developed textile, clothing, automotive and chemical industries. In addition, Brazil is famous for the production of coffee, cocoa and sugarcane.
The symbol of the country is Rio de Janeiro. It is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and the largest tourist center in South America.
Argentina
Argentina is the second largest country in South America. In its structure, it is considered a republic with a capital in Buenos Aires. Until 1816, Argentina was a colony of Spain. Among the population of the country there are few Indians. In Argentina, there are many descendants of not only Spanish immigrants, but also Italians, English, and French. Most of the population lives in cities located on the coast.
Argentina is a developed state of South America. Here, engineering and mining industries are of great importance. But the main wealth is the pampa, huge plains with fertile lands.
Peru
Peru is the third largest country in the continent. Half of its population are Hispanic Peruvians, and the second part is Indian peoples (Quechua, Aymara). The country has developed mining industry. Processing industries are represented by ferrous and non-ferrous metallurgy. In Peru, sugarcane, coffee, and cocoa are grown. On the coast there are many enterprises where they process sardines, anchovies and other seafood.
Suriname
Suriname is the smallest state in South America. In its structure, it is a republic. Suriname gained independence in 1975, before that the country was a colony of the Netherlands. Industry is poorly developed. However, oil production is of great importance for the economy of Suriname.