Politically, the country has gone through many transitions from dictatorships, to military coups, to Christian democratic ruling parties. Today, Chile is a strong democratic nation. The family is very important to Chileans; this is influenced largely by the mestizo way of living. The mestizo's are very protective of the family since they live in small villages and lead life in a fashion that benefits all of society. The arts and education models are closely related to those of a European system.
The country of Chile exists today as a republic that uses a Presidential system of government. Today, the government consists of three branches, Executive, Legislative, and Judicial. Chile has a large mixture of races and nationalities.
Because of this great racial diversity, most Chileans feel that there is very little racial prejudice.
Regarding business customs, it is said that in Chile you do not work to live, you live to work. The Chilean workday is considered one of the world's longest, however 2 hour lunches are expected. Additionally, it is acceptable to arrive late to an appointment. Appointments are made during the work day or combined with a business lunch. The religion of Chile is integral to its culture and history; as is true with most nations.
Introduction and History
Chile is the longest country in Latin America, with a coastline of 6,435 km and an overall land area of 748,800 sq km. It borders the South Pacific Ocean in the west as well as the nations of Peru, Bolivia and Argentina. The
Cited: 1. "Religious Freedom Report of Chile". http://www.loc.gov/rr/frd/. 6 March 2006. 2. "Country study of Chile". http://countrystudies.us/chile/51.htm. 6 March 2006. 3. "Chile." Encarta Encyclopedia Deluxe Ed. 2005. 5-8. 4. "Chile 's Economy and Investment Conditions". Export Council for Energy Efficiency. 1999. 28 February 2006. http://www.ecee.org/pubs/assess/chile/Chile1.htm 5. "Chile". Encyclopedia Britannica. 2006. Encyclopedia Britannica Premium Service. 26 February 2006. http://www.britannica.com/eb/article-25263. 6. "Chile". Embassy of Chile, Washington D.C. 2005. Globescope, Inc. 26 February 2006. http://www.chile-usa.org/poins.htm