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Uruguay

Uruguay, officially the Oriental Republic of Uruguay, is a country in southeastern South America.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Uruguay, officially the Oriental Republic of Uruguay, is a country in southeastern South America. It borders Argentina and Brazil and has coastline on the Río de la Plata and the Atlantic Ocean. Its capital and largest city is Montevideo, and Spanish is the official language.

Geography

Uruguay lies on the southeastern coast of South America, with land borders with Argentina and Brazil. It borders the Río de la Plata to the south and the Atlantic Ocean to the southeast.

History

Uruguay declared independence in 1825 and secured recognition of its sovereignty in 1828. Before independence, the territory was contested by Spain, Argentina, and Brazil.

Government and politics

Uruguay is a unitary presidential constitutional republic. The president serves as both head of state and head of government, and the country has a two-chamber legislature.

People and culture

Uruguay’s population is about 3.5 million, with most people living in the metropolitan area of Montevideo. Spanish is the official language, and the country is noted for its European cultural influences and strong civic institutions.

Economy

Uruguay’s economy has traditionally relied on agriculture, including beef, wool, rice, and other crops, alongside services and tourism. It has also expanded renewable energy use in recent years.

Key facts

  • Uruguay is located in southeastern South America between Argentina and Brazil.
  • It is one of the smallest countries in South America by area.
  • Montevideo is both the capital and the largest city.
  • Uruguay is a republic with a president as head of state and government.
  • The country is known for relatively progressive social policies and a long democratic tradition.
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Canadian context

Uruguay is relevant to Canadian readers through travel, trade, and diplomacy, and as a South American country with a stable democratic system.

Frequently asked questions

What is Uruguay’s official name?
Its official name is the Oriental Republic of Uruguay.
What is the capital of Uruguay?
Montevideo is the capital and largest city.
What language is spoken in Uruguay?
Spanish is the official language.
Which countries border Uruguay?
Uruguay borders Argentina to the west and Brazil to the north and northeast.
When did Uruguay become independent?
Uruguay declared independence in 1825 and gained recognition of its sovereignty in 1828.
What is Uruguay known for?
It is known for its democratic stability, progressive social policies, and strong education and social welfare traditions.

References

  1. Encyclopaedia Britannicahttps://www.britannica.com/place/Uruguay
    Supports: Country location, capital, general overview, geography and population context.
  2. Central Intelligence Agencyhttps://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/about/archives/2023/countries/uruguay/summaries
    Supports: Independence history and political overview.
  3. Encyclopaedia Britannicahttps://www.britannica.com/summary/Uruguay
    Supports: Official name, area, population, capital, language, government, currency, and geography.
  4. BBC Newshttps://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-20041847
    Supports: Country profile, population, language, social and political reputation.
  5. EBSCO Research Startershttps://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/geography-and-cartography/uruguay
    Supports: Location, capital, social policy reputation, economy, and geography.