Origins
Spanish Conquistadors When the Spaniards arrived in the 16th century, the land known today as Chile was inhabited by various indigenous societies. Estimates suggest that the indigenous population exceeded a million, sprinkled irregularly from north to south. The Mapuche ("Men of the Earth"), inhabited the central and southern regions. The most outstanding of the Mapuche peoples were the Araucanians, renowned for their long-standing resistance to both the Spaniards and, subsequently, to the Chileans.The so-called "Pacification of Araucania" was achieved only in the second half of the 19th century.
Today, Chile's indigenous peoples include Aymara (some 35,000) and Atacameņos (about 4,000) in the north; Mapuche (approximately one million) in the south; Rapa Nui (3000) on Easter Island; and a few Kawashkar and Yagan on the southernmost islands.
Foreign settlers began to arrive in Chile following independence, that is, during the l9th and 20th centuries. Seafarers and commercial agents were the first to take up residence, followed by traders and administrators. In a short time, they adapted to the local lifestyle. Many married Chilean women and became part of influential groups within society. As years went by, their descendants assimilated with the local bourgeoisie. Some even played an important role in the nation's economic and cultural development. However, immigration to Chile never reached the enormous proportions it did in countries such as Brazil and Argentina.
Chilean culture is a product of a cross-fertilization of European and indigenous influences. Following the contributions of a new wave of Spanish immigrants, mostly from the Basque region, French cultural norms gained popularity during the 19th century. The French influence found expression among the intelligentsia and the artistic community, as well as in the lifestyle of the upper classes. The arrival of silent films, at the beginning of this century, brought new customs and fashions, and contributed to changing opinions and concepts of culture and beauty among the well-to-do. The radio and written press were also influential. Over time, culture moved beyond the realm of the elite, reaching out to the middle and lower classes. The universities became important centers of cultural life: theater, music and ballet could be appreciated by people from all walks of life.
More recently, North American culture has greatly influenced Chilean culture. Cinema, broadcast and cable TV, the constant influx of the latest international advances and innovations - from complex scientific concepts to small consumer items - have all contributed to the homogenization of lifestyles. The United States customs and tastes are reflected in everything from fashion to fast food. In Chilean urban areas, daily life runs its course with the advantages and problems common to all large modern cities. However, the most notable successes of recent years in Chile have been rooted deeply in Chile's past. The work of poets Pablo Neruda and Gabriela Mistral, and the artistic efforts of various members of the Parra family (Violeta, Roberto and Nicanor) continue to have a strong influence in popular culture.
