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Bolivia is beautiful and striking; there are currently 10 national parks and eight protected areas. Although Bolivia is landlocked, it never feels claustrophobic - blessed with breathtaking lakes and lofty mountains.
Throughout the country’s colonial history, Bolivia was known as 'Upper Peru', until after Simon Bolivar led the country to independence in 1825, when it was named in his honour. Therefore, the country's name instigates great national pride, which has unfortunately been marred by years of turmoil and tyranny under the lead of caudillos (military dictators).
Liberation retains a dual meaning in Bolivia; a country of great expanse, extensive lakes and salt plains induce an elated sense of freedom for any traveller. But there is little of such freedom for Bolivians, many of whom count for some of the poorest people in Latin America. Although Bolivia has entered an unprecedented era of political stability, it follows a record of 192 coups in the 156 years from independence to 1981.
The fight to keep their land mirrors the Bolivians' fight to preserve their traditions, such as the Pachamama ('Mother Earth'); shrines to her are found everywhere.
Throughout the country’s colonial history, Bolivia was known as 'Upper Peru', until after Simon Bolivar led the country to independence in 1825, when it was named in his honour. Therefore, the country's name instigates great national pride, which has unfortunately been marred by years of turmoil and tyranny under the lead of caudillos (military dictators).
Liberation retains a dual meaning in Bolivia; a country of great expanse, extensive lakes and salt plains induce an elated sense of freedom for any traveller. But there is little of such freedom for Bolivians, many of whom count for some of the poorest people in Latin America. Although Bolivia has entered an unprecedented era of political stability, it follows a record of 192 coups in the 156 years from independence to 1981.
The fight to keep their land mirrors the Bolivians' fight to preserve their traditions, such as the Pachamama ('Mother Earth'); shrines to her are found everywhere.
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