Sep 182024
 
Chile

Flag of Chile

Chile celebrates Independence Day. It became free of Spanish rule in 1810. This long, narrow country, about twice the size of Montana, is bordered to the west by the Pacific Ocean and to the east by the Andes Mountains. About 17.2 million people live in Chile, and Gran Santiago is the capital. Copper is one of its major exports. Children could learn more at: Chile.

Oct 132024
 
Copiapo Rescued and Rescuers Celebrate!

Copiapo Rescued and Rescuers Celebrate!

Copiapo miners were rescued in 2010!  A mine cave-in in the Atacama Desert near Copiapo, Chile, had trapped 33 men underground on August 5. The men had rushed to an emergency shelter underground. Drilling apparatus found the location of the men seventeen days later. Oxygen, food, water, and letters from friends and family began reaching the men a few days later. Meanwhile, rescue operations, an international effort, continued on the surface. At one point experts thought the miners would not be rescued until late December. However, good fortune and expert drilling finally created an escape plan. One by one the men were brought up in a capsule. They were all successfully brought to earth’s surface before midnight on October 13, 2010!

Dec 012024
 
Antarctic Research Facility

Antarctic Research Facility

Antarctic Treaty was signed by twelve nations in 1959. The original twelve countries are: Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Chile, France, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, Soviet Union, South Africa, United Kingdom, and United States. Today 50 countries recognize the treaty. The continent will be kept as a scientific preserve, and no nation can colonize it. Children can learn about the Antarctic Treaty at: Antarctic Treaty. They can view great pictures of Antarctic animals at: Antarctic Animals.