Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
economic boom. Her approach worked like a charm, but her popularity wasn't to last. For
more,
Click here
.
Unlike your typical politician, Amado Boudou - Cristina Kirchner's vice president - drives a
Harley-Davidson and jams with his band on a Fender guitar. But like your typical politician,
he's been accused of embezzlement and money laundering.
TIMELINE
1536
Spanish aristocrat Pedro de Mendoza reaches the Río de la Plata and attempts to set up a
permanent settlement, only to return to Spain within four years.
1580
Buenos Aires is reestablished by Spanish forces, but the city remains a backwater for
years, in comparison to growing strongholds in central and northwestern Argentina.
1660
Buenos Aires' population is around 4000; it will take another century for it to double.
1776
Buenos Aires becomes capital of the new Spanish Viceroyalty of the Río de la Plata, which
included what are today Bolivia, Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay.
1806 & 1807
British troops raid the city but are beaten back by the people of Buenos Aires in two
battles, now celebrated as La Reconquista (the Reconquest) and La Defensa (the Defense).
May 25, 1810
Buenos Aires declares its independence from Spain, although actual independence is still
several years off. The city renames its main square Plaza de Mayo to commemorate the oc-
casion.
1829
