Paraguay
in Pictures, Alison Behnke, Visual Geography Series, Twenty-First
Century Books, Lerner Publishing Group, Minneapolis, MN, 2010.
Paraguay
is a country with no access to the sea, other than by several prominent
rivers which provided river ports. Paraguay has two official
languages, Spanish and Guarani. Most of the population is mestizo or
mixed.
The
thing that comes through in a resounding way about the history of
Paraguay is that they were subject to one dictator after another for
many, many years. Some of the dictators were very severe. The most
recent dictator, representing the Colorado (Red) party, Alfredo
Stroessner ruled from 1954 until 1989. He faced reelection many times,
but usually these were rigged in his favor. The presidency continued
with the same party after his exile. The first free election took place
in 1993. By free, all voters were allowed to vote for the candidate of
their choice. The first election which resulted in a peaceful change
from one political party to another did not take place until 2008, after
over 60 years of control by the Colorado Party.
The
other notable thing about Paraguay is a couple of wars. They did not
actively participate in the world wars, but had a war against the triple
alliance (Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay) in 1866 which Paraguay was
thwarted in an attempt to gain access to the sea.
Another
war with Bolivia in the 1930s called the “Chaco War” over disputed
territories and an attempt by Bolivia to gain access to the rivers which
provide Paraguay with ports. This war ended more favorably for
Paraguay. This wars however lead to the promotion of the military and
in turn military dictatorships.
Paraguay’s
major resource is the production of electricity. In 1981 the Itaupu
dam was completed. This is the second highest producing hydroelectric
dam in the world. 99.9 percent of the electricity in Paraguay is
hydroelectric power. The dam was built with economic support from
Brazil, and signified a period of economic growth in Paraguay which has
not been maintained.
One thing Paraguay has in common with Argentina is the use of Yerba Mate. This would be considered the national drink.
This book has some important information. It also suggests a website www.vgsbook.com.
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