Argentina is South America's second largest country; its 2.78 million square kilometers (1.07 million square miles) extend almost 4,000 kilometers (2,485 miles) from its subtropical north to its sub-Antarctic south. It encompasses parts of the Andes Mountains, many swamps, the large plains of the Pampas, and a lengthy coastline. Argentina is bordered by Chile, Bolivia, Paraguay, Brazil, Uruguay, and the South Atlantic Ocean. The Argentine population was estimated at 39.14 million in July 2004. Per capita income was estimated at $11,200 in 2003.

Government

A republic with a strong presidential system, the Argentine government has a bicameral federal structure. The country's history of political instability, its powerful executive and provincial governments, and a poorly institutionalized congress have moved the center of the political scene away from the national legislature. As a result, the Argentine government has often suffered from corruption scandals and weak fiscal management, culminating in 2001 with a confidence crisis and the resignation of President...