The Republic of Paraguay is situated in the heart of South America, where it borders Argentina, Brazil and Bolivia. Paraguay was inhabited by the Guarani and Charrua Indian tribes when it was discovered by the Europeans in the early 16th Century.

The region quickly became the centre for Jesuit missions and settlements in South America, which lasted almost 150 years until they were banished by the Spanish Crown in 1767. In 1811, Paraguay declared itself independent of Spain and overthrew the local government. For the following century Paraguay suffered from political instability, dictatorships and wars with its neighbours. In 1947, Paraguay suffered from a devastating civil war, which eventually resulted in a dictatorship that lasted more than 40 years. However, in 1989, Paraguay started a transition to democracy and four years later the first democratically elected President started office.

Inhabitants: 6,200,000
Area: 400,000 km2
Capital: Asuncion (1,200,000 inhabitants)
Languages: Spanish, Guarani
Religion: Roman Catholics (90%), others (10%)
GBD per capita: $4,500
Government: Constitutional republic
Climate: Eastern Paraguay is in the temperate to subtropical zone, while the last third of the country is in the tropical zone.