Some main facts about Chile

• The capitol is Santiago
• Borders Argentina, Bolivia and Peru.
• Has a population of over 16 million
• Official language is Spanish
• Governement = Democratic
• Religion is primarily Catholic
• Their independence from Spain is September 18, 1810
• Major exports are: copper, fruit, fish, paper, chemicals and wine
• Major imports are: petroleum, chemicals, electrical and telecommunications equipment, industrial machinery, vehicles and natural gases
• The climate is temperate with the north being desert, the central area is mediteranean and the south is cool/damp
• 88% of the population live in urban areas
• 77 is the average lifespan
• Current Enviornmental Issues: widespread deforestation and mining threaten natural resources; air pollution from industrial and vehicle emmissions; water pollution from raw sewage.