The Oriental Republic of Uruguay is situated in South America, next to the left margin of the Rio de la Plata, that bathes her shores. Her neighbors are, Brazil to the north; Argentina to the West; and the Atlantic Ocean to the East,

Uruguay, most likely a Guaraní words, whose meaning is thought to be "River of Snails", alluding to the numerous turns in it's course, or "River of the Pintados", for the sheer number of these birds on the litoral coasts and on the Rio Negro, which crosses the Republic in almost half it's territory.

When the spanish arrived, the land was habitated by different indian tribes, of which the most numerous and wild were the Charrua. From there when particular skill in football, the most popular of sports, is shown, it is attributed to the "Garra Charrua" (Charrua Claw).

The gestation process for our independence claims José Artigas as it's protagonist and unarguable hero, culminating with the "33 Orientales" (33 Orientals) campaign, led by General Juan Antonio Lavalleja, on april 19, 1825.

In 1830 our first Constitution was sworn in, our claim to freedom and independence. (As of this writing, the Constitution has been reformed five times).

Our form of government is republican, democratic and representative. The ancient formula of separation of powers still rules.

There is no State religion, and all cults are free. Spanish is the official language.

Education is free, lay and compulsive, the last condition applying to primary and secondary schooling.

Our principal richness is cattle and agriculture. The sea also provides us with generous resources and we have a renowned seawolf industry.

Three coastline departments have important thermal fountains.

Our beaches extend along the entire Rio de la Plata and Atlantic Ocean, a major draw for our people and tourists alike, especially Punta del Este, a favored place for international beach-lovers.

The Capital of Uruguay is Montevideo.