Uruguay

Juan Díaz de Solís becomes the first European to reach the region that is now Uruguay.

The Portuguese established Colônia do Sacramento amid territorial disputes in the region.

The Spanish founded Montevideo as a military stronghold.

Uruguay's fight for independence starts, involving Portugal, Spain, and the United Provinces.

Uruguay secures its independence after a lengthy struggle involving multiple powers.

Uruguay enacts its constitution, formally establishing the country as an independent state.

A coup d'état leads to the establishment of a civic-military dictatorship in Uruguay.

Uruguay returns to democratic governance after the end of military rule.