South American History by Country ---------------------------------------- Argentina Bolivia Brazil Chile Colombia Ecuador Guyana Paraguay Peru Suriname Uruguay Venezuela

Caral
Oldest civilization in the Western Hemisphere

Chibcha
Another old civilization, also known as Muiscas

Chavin
Ancient culture that arose in northern Peru

Moche
Precursors of the Incas in Peru

Incas
One of the most powerful empires ever assembled

The Treaty of Tordesillas
Divided South America between Spain and Portugal

European Colonization of the Americas
Broad, detailed article focusing mainly on Spanish conquest

Francisco Pizarro
Conqueror of the Inca Empire

South American Wars of Independence
Detailed overview of the various independence efforts

Simon Bolivar
Charismatic leader who inspired many South Americans

Jose de San Martin
Famous independence leader