Map of Uruguay, Montevideo

Uruguay is a country in South America, between Brazil and Argentina. The capital and chief economic center is the coastal city of Montevideo.

Uruguay was a part of the colonial empire of Spain in America until the early 1800s. After a brief period of Brazilian rule, as Província Cisplatina, Uruguay became an independent nation in 1828. Its Spanish past influences many aspects of Uruguayan culture. Spanish is the official language of Uruguay.

Uruguay is heavily urbanized. More than 90 % of all Uruguayans live in urban areas, and more than 40 % live in the capital city. Most of Uruguay’s people are of European descent. Tourism plays a major role in Uruguay’s economy. The country’s picturesque beaches attract visitors from all over the world. Agriculture also is an important economic activity, especially the raising of livestock.

The country has borders with Brazil and Argentina.