CHILI (ante), though less revolutionary than some of its sister republics, has been subjected to several forcible attempts to change the government. The most formidable of these was in 1851. At first the insurgents were victorious, but after 4,000 men had fallen in battle and great damage had been done to business and commerce, the govern ment succeeded in effecting peace by money more than by arms. This was during the presidency of Don Manuel Montt, a man of great ability. He restored peace and pros perity to the country, and it has since been free from internal strife. In 1864, C. sympathized warmly with Peru against Spain, and in the following year its coast was blockaded by a Spanish fleet. March 31, Valparaiso was bombarded, notwithstanding the protest of the foreign ministers and consuls. Thousands of shot and shell were thrown into it, destroying many public and private buildings and involving a loss of 10 millions of dollars, the chief part of which fell on the foreign residents. The remonstrances of the European governments soon compelled a cessation of hostilities and the raising of the blockade. In 1871, a treaty of peace was negotiated through the mediation of the United States government, and signed at Washington. During the past few years C. has advanced greatly both in material and intellectual development. New mines are worked, agricultural schools and societies are exerting a beneficial influence, and great improve ments in rivers, harbors, and streets are projected. In 1877, more than 1200 m. of rail road and nearly 5,000 m. of telegraph were in operation, and additional lines of both are in progress. There are 500 efficient government schools, and an equal number established by cities, churches, and private persons. Two normal schools, for male and female
teachers are in good condition. The government university at Santiago has a prepara tory department connected with its higher course. The conciliar seminary combines collegiate and theological studies. There are also at the capital agricultural, naval, and military schools. The national library, founded by the Jesuits, contains 25,000 vol umes, many of which are on theological subjects. In 1843, a dispute arose between C. and the Argentine Republic for the possession of Patagonia. Many unsuccessful attempts to settle it were made, and war between the two countries often seemed imminent, but in 1879 a treaty was signed by which the disputed territory was ceded to the Argentine Republic. C. having transferred a portion of disputed territory to Bolivia on condition that the Chilians residing in it should not be taxed, Bolivia did refrain from taxation but confiscated some property owned by a Chilian company. Upon this C. sent troops into Bolivia. Peru offered to mediate between the parties, but the offer having been rejected an alliance followed between Bolivia and Peru, and, in April, 1879, war against C. was declared. Hostile operations have been carried on with great energy. In a naval engagement the Chilians captured the powerful iron-clad steamer Huascar and turned it against its former owners. Peru, with inferior vessels, has since accomplished several daring exploits, and the war goes on with bitterness and varied success. Recently, how ever, C.. has gained decided advantages, capturing Arica, and entering on the siege of Lima. The victories in this war have been not the accompaniment of indis criminate pillage and ravage.