UNASUR Flag of the South American Union
Dallas Morning News | May 27, 2008
On Friday, May 23, 2008, South America’s 12 nations officially signed on to form the Union of South America Nations or UNASUR. Going into effect in 2009, the treaty unites the continent in a way that models the European Union. Nine member states must still ratify the treaty, but most hope that will happen swiftly and that bickering nations can work together.
First explorations of South America by Europeans began as early as 1500, when Spanish explorers discovered the mouth of the Amazon River. For years to follow, primarily Spanish, Portuguese, and Dutch travelers mapped and recorded the geography and native cultures there. While seeking gold and other resources, the explorers brought devastating disease and great hardships to the native peoples. Many Europeans also eventually settled in its various regions.
Today’s South Americans reflect these historic events. For example, UNASUR has adopted four official languages—Dutch, English, Portuguese, and Spanish, and includes seven recognized ethnic groups, including White, Mulatto, Mestizo, and Amerindian. Much of the continent remains rural, as many nations struggle with economic, political, social, health, and environmental challenges.
3 responses so far ↓
wil // June 2, 2008 at 10:27 am
Well isn’t that flag communist looking?
Jess // June 2, 2008 at 6:26 pm
Looks like a dodgy corporation logo to me! Maybe I’m just cynical about corporations.
wil // June 2, 2008 at 9:42 pm
If one is creating proto-fascist superstate–would seem could spare some change for better logo?
Looks like bullseye–though that would be appropriate though–