Juan Diaz de Solis, a Spaniard, "discovered" Urugay in 1515. He was killed by the indigenous Charr√∫a Indians. Spanish colonization began in 1624. Portuguese settlement followed in 1680. An independent republic was declared in 1825.
The state owns the major industries and services. Social welfare programs are among the most advanced in the world. The living standard is one of the highest in South America and political and labour conditions among the most free.
The country was under military control from 1973 until 1985 when a civilian government was restored.
The bicameral parliament consists of the Senate with 30 members, and the House of Representatives with 99 members. Elections for both houses are held every 5 years.
In 1987 Uruguay signed the Act of Montivideo with Argentina, concerning the economic and social integration of the two countries.
