Paraguay Map

Paraguay is a landlocked country in South America which is officially known as the Republic of Paraguay. Its borders are connected with Brazil to the east and northeast, Argentina to the south and southwest, and Bolivia to the northwest. Its largest city and the capital of the country is Asuncion. Paraguay is the founding member of the United Nations, the Non-Aligned Movement, Mercosur, the Organization of American States and the Lima Group.

History

The city of Asuncion was established by the Spanish conquistadors when they arrived in 1524, and in 1537 it is the first capital of the Governorate of the Rio de la Plata. In the 17th century, Paraguay was the centre of Jesuit missions, where the indigenous Guarani people converted to Christianity and introduced European culture. Paraguay became a peripheral colony, with few urban settlers and centres, after the expulsion of the Jesuits from Spanish territories in 1767. Paraguay was ruled by a series of authoritarian governments characterised by isolationist, protectionist and nationalist policies after it get independence from Spain in the early 19th century.

The Paraguayan War brought an end to this period, which was later followed by another major international conflict- the Chaco War against Bolivia in the 20th century. After that, the country came under a succession of military doctrines which lasted till 1989.

Culture

Paraguay culture is a fusion of two traditions and cultures- Southern Guarani and European. The cultural heritage of Paraguay can be traced back to the extensive intermarriage between indigenous Guarani women and the original male Spanish settlers. The culture is highly influenced by European countries that also includes Spain.

This cultural fusion is expressed in art forms such as embroidery and lace making. Paraguay's music consists of rhythmic polkas, light gallops and languid guaranias. The cultural fusion deeply influences the culinary heritage of Paraguay.

Language

Paraguay has both Guarani and Spanish/Castilian as its official languages which makes it a bilingual nation. The Guarani language is an outstanding work of the indigenous Guarani culture that abided in Paraguay. There are various indigenous languages of Paraguay which are spoken by people, and many of them are threatened by extinction. Languages such as Ayoreo, Ishir, and Guana are considered endangered.

Geography

Rio Paraguay divides Paraguay into two well-differentiated geographic regions. The Eastern region and the Western Region which is officially known as Western Paraguay. It is also called the Chaco. The terrain consists of wooded hills and grassy plains in the eastern region, whereas the western region is mostly low, marshy plains.

FAQs

Q.1. What is the climatic condition of Paraguay?

Ans. The overall climate of Paraguay is tropical to subtropical.

Q.2. How do government and politics stand in Paraguay?

Ans. Paraguay is a representative democratic republic. It has a multi-party system and the powers are divided across the three branches- Legislative, Executive and Judiciary.

Q.3. What is the capital of Paraguay?

Ans. Asuncion is the capital of Paraguay.

Q.4. When did Paraguay get its independence?

Ans. Paraguay got its independence on May 14, 1811.