Bolivia became an independent country in the year 1825, with a republican government, and was named after Simon Bolivar, the first President. It was once a part of Peru, and, in its climate, soil, and productions, resembles that country.
Chili, being bounded on the east by the lofty and snow capped Andes on one side, and the ocean on the other, never feels excessive heat, though situated nearly in the torrid zone. The climate therefore is cool and healthy, and the soil is fertile. The seasons in this country are different from those of the United States. Spring begins in September, summer in December, autumn in March, and winter in June. The productions are gold, silver, copper, tin, corn, wine, maize, sugar, sweet potatoes, and a variety of fruits.
ARAUCANIAN VILLAGE.
In the southern part of Chili there still exists a tribe of Indians, which the Spaniards have not yet been able to conquer. These are called the Araucanian Indians. They are a warlike and brave people, residing in scattered villages. They possess excellent horses, which are trained to martial use.
Patagonia is a cold and inhospitable country, of which little is known. It is inhabited by a race of Indians who are of a gigantic size. The first discoverers, called them Pata-gones which means clumsy-hoofed. From this circumstance the country derived its name.
The United Provinces abound in pampas, some of which are one hundred miles in extent, which are inhabited by wild Indians, and afford pasturage to herds of wild cattle. The climate is salubrious, and most of the fruits and vegetables of the torrid and temperate zones are produced.
Brazil is the largest of the countries of South America, and is level and fertile, producing tobacco, sugar, indigo, coffee, and pepper. Diamonds are found here. In the interior, vast herds of wild cattle abound. They are hunted for their hides, which form the chief export article of the country.