The people & culture of Argentina: Tango & traditions

Argentina is a country in South America known for its rich culture and history. The people of Argentina are diverse and proud of their roots, which have been shaped by different ethnic groups. The culture of Argentina is a mix of European and indigenous influences and has developed a unique identity over time.

The culture of Argentina is particularly known for its music, art and literature. The tango, which is performed in the brothels of Buenos Aires has become an important cultural symbol of the country. Argentina also has a thriving art scene, marked by artists such as Xul Solar and Antonio Berni. Argentina's literature is also of great importance, with writers such as Jorge Luis Borges and Julio Cortázar known worldwide.

Overall, Argentina’s culture is an important part of the country’s identity and a reason why it is a popular Destination for tourists from all over the world. The people of Argentina are proud of their culture and history and are happy to share it with others.

History and development of Argentine culture

Colonial period and independence

Argentina was colonized by the Spanish in 1536 and was part of the Spanish colonial empire until the beginning of the 19th century. In the years after 1810, Juan José de San Martín led the independence movement and finally achieved Argentine independence in 1816.

In the post-independence period, Argentina remained politically unstable and there were many conflicts between different groups. Juan Manuel de Rosas, who ruled from 1829 to 1852, was one of the country's most controversial leaders. He was criticized for his brutal repression of political opponents and for his authoritarian rule.

Modernity and contemporary history

In the second half of the 19th century, Argentina experienced an economic boom driven by the export of beef and grain. In the 1940s, the country was ruled by Juan Domingo Perón, who was known for his populist policies and support for the working class.

During the second half of the 20th century, Argentina was ruled by a series of military dictatorships known for their human rights abuses and repression of political opponents. The country returned to democracy in 1983 and since then it has experienced a turbulent history marked by political instability and economic challenges.

In recent years, Argentina has experienced a series of political changes, including the election of Cristina Fernández de Kirchner in 2007 and her re-election in 2011. In recent years, the country has also experienced an economic crisis, characterized by high inflation and a weak Currency was caused.

Overall, Argentina's history has seen many challenges and challenges, but the country also has a rich culture and a vibrant society shaped by many different influences.

Society and Ethnicity

Demographics and immigration

Argentina has a population of about 45 million people. Most of them are Argentines, who are usually of South American or European descent. The majority of the Argentine population is Roman Catholic. However, there are also a growing number of Protestants and Jews. The indigenous population of Argentina, such as the Mapuche, make up only a small part of the total population.

Argentina has a long history of immigration. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, many Europeans, especially Italians and Spaniards, arrived in Argentina. As a result, modern Argentine culture is heavily influenced by European culture. More recently, immigrants from other Latin American countries such as Bolivia, Peru and Paraguay have also made Argentina their new home.

Language and regional identities

The official language in Argentina is Spanish, and the country is considered the Spanish-speaking country in South America. However, there are also many regions where other languages ​​are spoken, such as Quechua in the Andean regions. In some regions of the country, there is also a strong regional identity based on the history and culture of immigrants. For example, in Buenos Aires a strong Italian community that can be traced back to the many Italian immigrants who live in the city.

Overall, Argentina's culture is as varied as the country's geography and the mix of different ethnic groups. Immigration has shaped the country and influenced its culture, and the country's different regions have their own unique identities and traditions.

Cultural expressions

Cultural expressions in Argentina are diverse and reflect the country's ethnic diversity. Modern Argentine culture has been influenced mainly by European immigration, but indigenous cultures also have an influence on the country's art and music.

music and dance

Music and dance are important components of Argentine culture. Tango is probably the most well-known style of music in Argentina and has its origins in Buenos Aires. Carlos Gardel and Astor Piazzolla are two of the country's most famous tango musicians. Tango songs are a special form of singing and often tell of love, passion and melancholy.

Literature and art

Argentine literature and art also have a great influence on the country's culture. Jorge Luis Borges is one of Argentina's most successful authors and has had a significant influence on Latin American literature. The comic character Mafalda, created by Quino, is one of Argentina's most famous characters and has also gained international recognition.

The country's urban centers are home to a variety of galleries and museums that exhibit modern and contemporary art. The art scene in Buenos Aires is particularly vibrant and attracts artists and art lovers from all over the world.

Overall, Argentina's cultural expressions reflect the country's diversity and passion.

Everyday culture and traditions of the Argentine population

Argentina is a country with a rich culture and traditions. The people of Argentina have a unique way of life that is reflected in their daily culture and traditions.

Eating and Drinking

The Argentine cuisine is known for their beef, which is raised on the vast pampas. The meat is often cooked on the grill and served with chimichurri sauce. Dulce de leche is another specialty that is often served as a dessert. Mate tea is the national drink and is served in a special calabash called a "mate". It is common to share mate with friends and it is an important part of Argentine culture.

sport and freetime

Sport is an important part of Argentine culture. Football is the most popular sport and Boca Juniors is one of the most famous football clubs in the country. Rugby is another popular sport played in the Rugby Union variant. Juan Manuel Fangio, a famous Formula 1 driver, is from Argentina. Diego Maradona, one of the best football players of all time, is also Argentinian.

The gauchos are an important part of rural Argentine culture. They are the cowboys of the Pampas and still live in a traditional way. They ride horses and live in simple huts. The typical gaucho wears a bomber jacket, a wide-brimmed hat and cowboy boots.

Overall, Argentina's everyday culture and traditions are an important part of the country's identity. People are proud of their culture and their roots and hold on to their traditions.

At our 3 weeks Argentina tour you can experience all the highlights of the South American country.