Next to Brazil in size and population, Argentina stretches from the Atlantic to the Chilean border and the lofty Andes peaks. Aconcagua (22,834 ft, 6,960 m) is the highest mountaintop in the world aside from the major peaks in Asia. Argentina is surrounded by Bolivia and Paraguay on the north, and Uruguay and Brazil on the east. The northern area is comprised of the marshy and somewhat wooded Gran Chaco, adjoining Bolivia and Paraguay, and to the south are the undulating, rich Pampas. The area is agriculturally rich and sheep and cattle are the mainstay of the Brazilian population. Southward is Patagonia, an area marked by cool, dry plain interspersed with wooded and rich agricultural zones. Argentina is the world's eighth largest country and spreads over an area of 2.8 million square kilometers. Argentina is notable for some of the world's tallest mountains and vast stretches of deserts. The country is also famous for extraordinary waterfalls. It is a country that has a great degree of diversity in its region. The diversity ranges from wild, distant areas in southern Patagonia to the lively metropolis of Buenos Aires in the north. Argentina's population is 39,537,943 (growth rate: 1.0%); birth rate: 16.9/1000; infant mortality rate: 15.2/1000; life expectancy: 75.9; density per sq mi: 37. Argentina is prosperous in natural wealth. The workforce of the country is knowledgeable, and its economy is one of the largest in South America. Argentina faces a severe economical crisis, as a deep recession resulted in an economic collapse in 2001. Nearly half of the population lives in poverty as a consequence of the economic disaster. During the economic turbulence, the country grappled with massive debt defaults and currency devaluation. Argentina is a soccer crazy nation and their love for football is intense. The game is almost like a religion to them. |
