The year 2010 is one that Chileans will never forget. The roller coaster year was filled with the up-and-downs of major events, tragedies, victories, and celebrations. It was truly an unforgettable year that renewed pride and patriotism in Chileans and put Chile in a global spotlight. Join the Chileans during 2011 and see for yourself what makes this nation so great.
New President: The New Year produced two final presidential candidates, former president Eduardo Frei and new candidate, Sebastian Piñera. In the end, Piñera was victorious as Chile's 35th president. He entered office as a right-wing leader, the first in decades.
Earthquake: Just a few weeks before President Piñera took office, a massive 8.8 magnitude earthquake shook south-central Chile for up to 3 minutes. The powerful earthquake struck during the early hours of February 27th. Tremors were felt as far north as the city of Ica in southern Peru. The earthquake triggered a tsunami which devastated several coastal towns in south-central Chile. The earthquake generated a blackout that affected 93% of the population and went on for several days. Chileans all over the country banded together to help those impacted by the earthquake. The renewed sense of Chilean patriotism was in full power when Chile headed to the World Cup in South Africa.
World Cup: Shortly after a catastrophic earthquake and tsunami, the Chilean national soccer team rallied support for the World Cup in South Africa. Chile won its first World Cup game since 1962, an epic victory for the team and country. In the second round they were defeated by Brazil, but still brought great joy to Chileans.
Bicentennial: Chile celebrated its 200th anniversary on September 18th. The celebrations took place throughout the country. While Chile is a festive nation, the typical patriotism and pride was taken to a new level. Many reflected on the struggles Chile faced over the year during their fiestas.
Copiapó Mining Accident: On August 5th a cave-in left 33 men trapped 2,300 feet below ground. The miners survived underground in the Atacama Desert for a record 69 days. Thankfully, all 33 were rescued and brought to the surface on October 13th.
New President: The New Year produced two final presidential candidates, former president Eduardo Frei and new candidate, Sebastian Piñera. In the end, Piñera was victorious as Chile's 35th president. He entered office as a right-wing leader, the first in decades.
Earthquake: Just a few weeks before President Piñera took office, a massive 8.8 magnitude earthquake shook south-central Chile for up to 3 minutes. The powerful earthquake struck during the early hours of February 27th. Tremors were felt as far north as the city of Ica in southern Peru. The earthquake triggered a tsunami which devastated several coastal towns in south-central Chile. The earthquake generated a blackout that affected 93% of the population and went on for several days. Chileans all over the country banded together to help those impacted by the earthquake. The renewed sense of Chilean patriotism was in full power when Chile headed to the World Cup in South Africa.
World Cup: Shortly after a catastrophic earthquake and tsunami, the Chilean national soccer team rallied support for the World Cup in South Africa. Chile won its first World Cup game since 1962, an epic victory for the team and country. In the second round they were defeated by Brazil, but still brought great joy to Chileans.
Bicentennial: Chile celebrated its 200th anniversary on September 18th. The celebrations took place throughout the country. While Chile is a festive nation, the typical patriotism and pride was taken to a new level. Many reflected on the struggles Chile faced over the year during their fiestas.
Copiapó Mining Accident: On August 5th a cave-in left 33 men trapped 2,300 feet below ground. The miners survived underground in the Atacama Desert for a record 69 days. Thankfully, all 33 were rescued and brought to the surface on October 13th.