Paraguay

In the disastrous War of the Triple Alliance (1865-70) - between Paraguay and Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay - Paraguay lost two-thirds of all adult males and much of its territory. It stagnated economically for the next half century. In the Chaco War of 1932-35, large, economically important areas were won from Bolivia. The 35-year military dictatorship of Alfredo STROESSNER was overthrown in 1989, and, despite a marked increase in political infighting in recent years, relatively free and regular presidential elections have been held since then.

Languages & Population

Approximate Population: 6,669,086 (July 2007 est.)

Nationality (Noun): Paraguayan(s)

Nationality (Adjective): Paraguayan

Official Language(s): Spanish, Guarani

Major Languages Spoken: Guaraní, Spanish

Country Facts

Country Name (long form): Republic of Paraguay

Country Name (short form): Paraguay

Country Name (local long form): Republica del Paraguay

Country Name (local short form): Paraguay

Name of Capital: Asuncion

UTC Time Difference (from capital): UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC during Standard Time)

Countries Near by, and Bordering Paraguay: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil

Land Area: 397300 sq km

Water Area: 9450 sq km

Comparative Area: slightly smaller than California

Total Land Boundry: 3,995 km

Coastline: 0 km (landlocked)

National Holiday: Independence Day, 14 May 1811 (observed 15 May)

International Phone Code: 595

Currency Code: guarani (PYG)

Internet Country Code: .py

US Embassy Location: 1776 Avenida Mariscal Lopez, Casilla Postal 402, Asuncion

US Embassy Mailing Address: Unit 4711, APO AA 34036-0001