Peru

From Canonica AI

Geography

Peru is located in western South America, bordered by Ecuador and Colombia to the north, Brazil to the east, Bolivia to the southeast, Chile to the south, and the Pacific Ocean to the west. The country's diverse geography ranges from the arid plains of the Pacific coastal region to the peaks of the Andes mountains and the tropical forests of the Amazon Basin.

A panoramic view of the Andes mountain range in Peru.
A panoramic view of the Andes mountain range in Peru.

History

The history of Peru spans four millennia, extending back through several stages of cultural development in the mountain regions and the coastal deserts. The earliest evidence of human presence in Peru dates back to approximately 9,000 BC. The oldest known complex society in Peru, the Norte Chico civilization, flourished along the coast of the Pacific Ocean between 3,000 and 1,800 BC.

Culture

Peruvian culture is primarily rooted in Amerindian and Spanish traditions, though it has also been influenced by various African, Asian, and European ethnic groups. The cultural traditions reflect the diverse geography of Peru. The coastal, mountain and jungle regions have resulted in the development of distinct regional cultures.

Economy

Peru has a mixed economy, characterized by a high level of foreign trade. The country's economy is diversified, with key sectors including manufacturing, agriculture, mining, and services. As of 2019, Peru is the world's second largest producer of silver and the sixth largest producer of gold.

See Also