Paraguay - Country facts
Location
Central South America, northeast of Argentina
Background
In the disastrous War of the Triple Alliance (1865-70), Paraguay lost two-thirds of all adult males and much of its territory. It stagnated economically for the next half century. In the Chaco War of 1932-35, large, economically important areas were won from Bolivia. The 35-year military dictatorship of Alfredo STROESSNER was overthrown in 1989, and, despite a marked increase in political infighting in recent years, relatively free and regular presidential elections have been held since then.
Climate
subtropical to temperate; substantial rainfall in the eastern portions, becoming semiarid in the far west
Terrain
grassy plains and wooded hills east of Rio Paraguay; Gran Chaco region west of Rio Paraguay mostly low, marshy plain near the river, and dry forest and thorny scrub elsewhere
Population
6,347,884 (July 2005 est.)
Ethnic Groups
mestizo (mixed Spanish and Amerindian) 95%, other 5%
Religions
Roman Catholic 90%, Mennonite and other Protestant 10%
Languages
Spanish (official), Guarani (official)
Map of Paraguay
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