Santiago

Santiago, officially the State of Santiago, is the second-largest and second-most populous state in Cartadania, located in the country's Luson region situated southeast of Carina Bay. With a population of approximately 43.9 million residents, Santiago is a highly influential state and a major powerhouse within the country, known for its large agricultural sector, impressive architectural heritage, and stunning natural landscapes.

Santiago originally emerged from the lands of western Verona, which was twice its current size before it was partitioned into the states of Trentino and Santiago. Santiago has been an autonomous province since 1593, after which it gained considerable political and economic influence in what would become Cartadania. Its large size and fertile lands have earned it the nickname "breadbasket" of the country. The state capital, Suriana, is located in the state's northwestern interior, just east of Umi ridge, a topographic isolate range separated from the southern ranges by Haiki Pass. The Newport-Carina Metro Area, with a population of 10.5 million residents, is Santiago's most populous urban region, and the third-most populous metropolitan area in Cartadania. The major anchor of the metropolitan area is Newport, the second-most populous city in the country, with 4.1 million residents.

Santiago's landscape is marked by mountains, valleys, and large areas of fertile land. The Matai Mountains, Sete Lagoas, Baixa Cordillera, and Lagoa Santissima offer an abundance of attractions such as caves and waterfalls, which draw large tourism populations each year. The state is also renowned for its heritage of architecture and colonial art in historical cities such as São Caexias, Espiga, Asturia, Diamantina, Itaquagança, Aracha, Santiga, and Guarugoinhas.

Santiago's €3.6 trillion economy is the second-largest in Cartadania, with a per capita personal income of €61,870 in 2029, ranking 15th in the nation. Santiago's low unemployment rate, which was 2.7% in June of the same year, ranked as the 1st in Cartadania. The state's economy relies mainly on, , , and , with significant development beginning in the late 18th century. Santiago's large population and robust economy also give it considerable influence in national politics, with the state voting almost overwhelmingly in favor of socialdemocracia (SDP) candidates, which, when paired with Verona, can nearly determine an election with their combined 164 electors. Santiago is also home to some of the country's largest universities, with the University of Santiago, the flagship university, ranking among the top ten public universities in the country. Santiago is consistently ranked among the ten overall best states based on metrics such as governance, healthcare, education, and economic opportunity, making it a significant player in the country's economic and political landscape.

Etymology
The name of the state, Santiago, has its roots in the imperial naming conventions of Cartadania. The original name, Sancti, was derived from the Latin term "Sancti Iacobu," meaning "saint," which is believed to refer to Saint James, the patron saint of Cartadania. The name Sancti was used to refer to the region of western Verona, which included the area that would later become the state of Santiago. Over time, the name evolved into Santiago, which has been used since the early 17th century to refer to the region.

The name Santiago has since become synonymous with the state and its people, representing the region's rich cultural heritage and historical significance. The state of Santiago is known for its important role in the development of Cartadanian society and its contributions to the nation's growth and prosperity.

History
Santiago's rich and diverse history is deeply intertwined with the history of Cartadania as a whole. The region that is now Santiago was originally inhabited by indigenous peoples, who thrived off the land's bountiful resources, including fertile soil and plentiful water sources. Latin explorers first arrived in the area in the late 11th century, and over the following centuries, Santiago's strategic location made it a hub of commerce and trade.

During the colonial period, Santiago was part of the Caphirian Imperium and was known as the region of Sancti. The Caphirians established numerous settlements throughout the region, including Suriana, which would later become the capital of Santiago. However, the colonial era was marked by widespread exploitation and mistreatment of the indigenous population, as well as the forced labor of enslaved people brought over to work on the region's large sugar and coffee plantations.

In the early 17th century, Santiago played a key role in the movement for Cartadanian independence from Caphiria. The region's strategic location made it an important center for resistance movements, and many important figures in the fight for independence hailed from Santiago. After a long, drawnout struggle, Cartadania finally gained its independence in 1618, and Santiago became one of the country's first states, ratifying the constitution 5 January 1619. One of the most significant events in Santiago's recent history was the Ano Vermelho, a period of political turmoil and violence that lasted from 1697 to 1698, a part of the larger Luson Rebellion from 1697 to 1710. During this time, the country was ruled by a government, and many citizens were oppressed for their stature in Cartadanian society, especially as it pertained to wealth and income. Santiago was one of the regions hardest hit by the violence of the Ano Vermelho, alongside Alexandria and Verona, and many of its citizens suffered greatly during this dark period in Cartadanian history.

During the 18th century, Santiago experienced significant growth and development in various sectors. The state's economy began to diversify beyond just agriculture, with the establishment of transportation networks and defense infrastructure. The development of the gold and diamond mining industry in the region also contributed to the state's economic growth during this period. The mining towns of Diamantina and Guarugoinhas were established during this time and became important centers of commerce and culture.

Culturally, Santiago also experienced a golden age during the 18th century, with the rise of the Baroque architectural style and the flourishing of music and literature. Many of the state's cities, such as São Caexias and Espiga, feature magnificent examples of Baroque architecture, with ornate churches and palaces built during this period. Santiago also produced several notable writers and musicians during this time, including the poet Ximon de Sant Biçente and the composer Luis de la Cruz.

Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, Santiago continued to play a vital role in Cartadanian history. The region was a major center of agriculture, and its large population made it an important center for industry and commerce. However, the state also faced its share of challenges, including economic instability, political corruption, and periods of social unrest.

Despite these challenges, Santiago has remained a vital and vibrant part of Cartadania. Today, the state is a major economic powerhouse, with a thriving tourism industry, strong agricultural sector, and a growing technology sector. Santiago's rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and dynamic economy continue to make it one of the most important and influential states in the country.

Geography
Santiago is nestled in the western portion of the Luson region, a vast and diverse landscape that stretches from along the southeastern coast of the Carina Bay to the Attalus Bay, home to the bulk of Cartadania's population. Bordered by five other states, Santiago boasts a vast expanse of 265430.7 km2, making it the second-largest state in Cartadania, second only to Verona. Santiago's topography is a blend of towering mountains, rolling hills, vast plains, and a meandering coastline with a boundary that stretches over 225 km offshore. Santiago is home to Meridian Apex (Apex Meridiana), a prominent peak towering at an elevation of 3,429 m above sea level, which makes it the seventh highest peak in the country. Located near the center of the state, this natural landmark is often associated with Santiago's nickname, "The Meridian State." The topography of Santiago is characterized by stark contrasts, with much of the state's southern and western regions being relatively flat, with an elevation of below 91 m. However, there are exceptions, such as the picturesque Clearwater, where stunning promontories rise 15 to 30 meters above the water, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that is completely different from the flat surrounding areas.

The central and eastern regions of Santiago, particularly those located 249 km or more away from the coastline, have a more undulating topography, with rolling hills rising between 30 to 76 m. These regions, particularly the Cerrado, are critical to Santiago's economy as they account for over 60% of the state's agriculture. The majority of crops exported from Santiago grow in the Cerrado, a natural savannah region that boasts fertile soils, bountiful wildlife, and a colorful flora. East of the Cerrado, on the border with Verona, lies the Pantanal, a vast wetland region that is home to the country's largest flooded grasslands. The Pantanal, which spans across the state boundary into Verona, is also home to Verona's famous Everglades park, an ecological paradise that is a testament to the country's commitment to preserving its natural heritage.

Thus, with its varied topography, lush vegetation, and scenic landscapes, Santiago is a land of contrasts, a place where rugged mountains blend with rolling hills and vast plains, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Climate
Santiago's geography and location provide a rich diversity of climates across the state. The northern region of the state experiences an equatorial climate, characterized by abundant rainfall and high humidity. This climate is conducive to the growth of a variety of crops, including rice, soybeans, corn, and sugar cane. The tropical monsoon climate in the north also makes it an ideal location for the cultivation of tropical fruits such as oranges, mangoes, papayas, and bananas.

In contrast, the southern region of the state is more arid, with a tropical savanna climate. The lower precipitation levels in this region make it suitable for crops that can withstand drier conditions, such as cotton. Despite the drier conditions, the south is still able to support a variety of crops due to the fertile soil and moderate temperatures.

The coastal regions of Santiago also experience a tropical monsoon climate, with abundant rainfall and high humidity. This climate, combined with the proximity to the sea, creates an ideal environment for the growth of seafood and fish, which are important to the state's economy.

While Santiago's location near the equator means that it experiences relatively consistent temperatures throughout the year, the state's position on the southeastern coast of the Carina Bay protects it from some of the more extreme weather patterns. However, the state is still vulnerable to hurricanes and tropical storms during the rainy season, which lasts from November to May. Santiago's favorable climate supports a diverse range of crops and industries, including the state's status as the nation's largest producer of coffee. With its varied climates and fertile soils, Santiago is an agricultural powerhouse that plays a vital role in Cartadania's economy.

Geology
Santiago's geology is diverse, with a variety of rock types found throughout the state. The state's bedrock is primarily composed of ancient Precambrian and Paleozoic rocks, which were formed over 500 million years ago. These rocks include gneiss, schist, granite, and other metamorphic rocks. In the Cerrado region of Santiago, there are also significant deposits of sedimentary rocks such as sandstone and shale.

One notable feature of Santiago's geology is its abundance of peridot and beryl. Peridot, the state gemstone, is a green mineral that is commonly found in volcanic rocks. It is often associated with basaltic lavas, and indeed many of the peridot deposits in Santiago are found in volcanic rocks. Beryl, the state mineral, is a mineral that forms in pegmatites, which are coarse-grained igneous rocks that form when magma cools slowly. Santiago's pegmatites are particularly rich in beryl, with deposits of aquamarine and emerald also found in the state.

In addition to peridot and beryl, Santiago has significant deposits of other minerals such as iron ore, copper, and gold. The state's mineral wealth has played an important role in its economy, with mining being a significant industry in many parts of the state.

Demographics
Santiago, the second-largest state in Cartadania, is home to a diverse and vibrant population. As per the latest census conducted by the Cartadania Office of the Census in 2030, the state's population stood at 43,880,933, making it the second-most populous state in the country. Santiago's population density is 165.3 per square kilometer, which ranks it as the seventh-most densely populated state. The state's population is a rich blend of different ethnicities and cultures, with a majority of the residents being of Spanish and Portuguese descent. The state is also home to a significant number of indigenous people who have been living in the region for centuries. Santiago's population has been growing steadily over the years, driven by factors such as natural population growth, immigration, and urbanization. The state's urban areas are densely populated, while its rural areas are sparsely populated. Santiago's population is highly educated, with a literacy rate of 98%, and the state is home to some of the country's top universities and research institutions.

Ancestry
Santiago's diverse population is a reflection of the country's long and complex history, with a blend of various ethnicities and cultural backgrounds. As of the latest census data in 2030, the population of Santiago was approximately 43,880,933, making it the second-most populous state in Cartadania.

The largest ethnic group, the Pardo or Cartadanian, constitutes over half of the population at 51.9%. This group represents the mixed-ethnic heritage that is common throughout Cartadania. The second-largest group, comprising 13.7% of the population, is of Latinate or northern Levantine descent with a strong influence from neighboring Alexandria in the northeastern coastal region around New Venceia. In addition to these two groups, Santiago is also home to significant populations of Pelaxian, Cronan, Coscivian, and Alshari ethnicities, which make up 16.4%, 6.6%, 2.4%, and 2.4% of the population, respectively. The remaining 6.6% of the population consists of various Indigenous peoples, who reflect the rich cultural diversity of the region.

Santiago's demographics are constantly changing due to immigration and migration, as well as natural population growth. As a result, Santiago's population continues to evolve and reflect the cultural and ethnic diversity that characterizes Cartadania as a whole.

Languages
Santiago, like the rest of Cartadania, is a land of many languages, where diverse linguistic communities have long coexisted. While the official language of government, business, and education is Cartadanian, the presence of Pelaxian speakers is significant, comprising approximately 34% of the population. The General Assembly recognizes this linguistic diversity and allows for the combined use of both Cartadanian and Pelaxian languages. The mutual intelligibility of these two languages, which stands at an impressive 90%, means that signage and other forms of communication can often remain in one language without the need for translation into the other.

Additionally, approximately 18% of Santiago's population speaks a mother language other than Cartadanian or Pelaxian at home, highlighting the rich linguistic tapestry that characterizes the state's cultural identity. This diverse range of linguistic communities contributes to the unique character of Santiago and its rich cultural heritage.

As of 2030, the majority of Santiago's population speaks Cartadanian as their first language. The second most widely spoken language is Pelaxian, which is spoken by approximately a third of the population. The influence of nearby Pelaxia is clear in Santiago's linguistic landscape. English is also spoken by approximately 23% of the population. Other languages are represented by less than 1% each, reflecting the diversity of Santiago's multicultural identity. Overall, Santiago's linguistic diversity adds to its rich cultural heritage and unique character.

Religion
Santiago's religious landscape reflects its complex and diverse history, shaped by both its geographic location and its former status as a Caphirian colony. The state's proximity to Urcea, a nation renowned for its Catholic identity, has also had a significant impact on the development of Santiago's religious landscape.

The Catholic Church remains the dominant religious institution in Santiago, with approximately 57% of the population identifying as Catholic. This can be attributed to the historical influence of Catholicism in Caphiria, which was the dominant religion in the region during the colonial era. In addition to its historical significance, Catholicism has also played an important role in Santiago's cultural traditions, with many of the state's cultural celebrations being linked to the Church. Despite Catholicism's continued dominance in Santiago, the state also has a notable irreligious community, comprising approximately 27% of the population. This community reflects the growing trend of secularism in Cartadania, as more and more citizens move away from traditional religious institutions.

Alongside its Christian and irreligious communities, Santiago also has a small but significant population of non-Christian religious groups, with approximately 14% of the population identifying as members of other faiths. This reflects the growing diversity of Cartadanian society, as citizens of different cultural and ethnic backgrounds bring their own religious traditions to the country.

Despite the diversity of religious beliefs within Santiago, the separation of church and state remains a fundamental principle of Cartadanian life. Nonetheless, the influence of Catholicism can still be observed in various aspects of the state, from its cultural celebrations to the practices of its government. This reflects the complex and multifaceted history of Santiago and its place within the broader context of Cartadanian society.

Government
Santiago's state government, which has been functioning since 1593, is located in Suriana, the and the second-largest city in the state. However, its present form of government was established in 1619, reflecting the state's long-standing history and tradition of democratic governance. The state government is based on the principles of the and. It is organized into three distinct branches, the executive, legislative, and judicial, each with specific responsibilities and duties.

Executive branch
The executive branch is one of the three branches of government in Santiago and is responsible for implementing and enforcing state laws and policies. It is headed by the governor, who is elected every four years by the citizens of Santiago and may serve a maximum of two terms. The governor is tasked with managing the state's resources and finances, as well as overseeing various departments and agencies that make up the governor's cabinet. These departments and agencies include the Department of Education, the Department of Transportation, and the Department of Health and Human Services, among others.

Currently, the 56th Governor of Santiago is Matteo Castano, who serves as the state's chief executive officer and commander-in-chief of the state's militia. The Lieutenant Governor of Santiago is Amari Ensenha, who serves as president of the Santiago Senate and is first in the line of succession to the governor. The Attorney General is another key member of the executive branch, serving as the chief legal advisor to the governor and the State Legislature, as well as the head of the Department of Justice. In the event of a vacancy in all three executive offices of governor, lieutenant governor, and attorney general, the Orator Princeps of the Santiago House of Emissaries assumes the role of governor.

Legislative branch
Santiago's legislative branch is an essential part of its state government, tasked with creating laws and regulations that govern the state. The branch is known as the Santiago State Legislature and is composed of two houses: the Senate and the House of Emissaries.

The Senate is the upper chamber of the legislature and is made up of 45 senators, each representing a different district in the state. Senators are elected to six-year terms, with a third of the Senate being up for election every two years. The Senate is responsible for passing laws and confirming executive appointments, among other duties.

The House of Emissaries, on the other hand, is the lower chamber of the legislature, with 100 members representing districts throughout Santiago. The members of the House of Emissaries are elected every two years and serve staggered six-year terms. The House of Emissaries has the primary responsibility for initiating bills related to the appropriation of funds and revenue-raising measures.

Together, the two houses of the Santiago State Legislature work to create laws that benefit the people of Santiago. The legislative process involves introducing bills, debating them in committee, and eventually voting on them in each house of the legislature. Once a bill is passed by both houses, it is sent to the governor for approval or veto. If the governor approves the bill, it becomes law, but if the governor vetoes it, the legislature may override the veto with a two-thirds majority vote in each house.

Judicial branch
Santiago's state court system is a vital component of the state's government structure. The court system comprises several different courts with varying jurisdictions, each with a unique role to play in administering justice in the state. One interesting aspect of the Santiago court system is the method of judicial selection. Santiago, along with Alexandria and Maresia, uses a legislative selection method for choosing judges. This means that the state legislature, rather than the Governor or a judicial nominating commission, is responsible for selecting judges. This method has been in use in Santiago since before it gained statehood and has remained a unique feature of the state's judiciary.

At the highest level is the Santiago Supreme Court, which serves as the court of last resort for the state. Established in 1619, the Supreme Court has seven judgeships, each appointed and confirmed by the Senate. The court hears appeals from the lower courts, including the Court of Appeals and the Circuit Courts, and it may also issue advisory opinions on legal questions referred to it by the Governor or the state legislature.

The Court of Appeals of Santiago, established in 1974, is an intermediate appellate court that serves as the bridge between the lower courts and the Supreme Court. The court has 15 judges, each appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate. These judges serve eight-year terms, and they hear appeals from the Circuit Courts, the County Courts, and administrative agencies.

In addition to the appellate courts, Santiago's court system includes several trial courts. The Circuit Courts are the only trial courts with general jurisdiction in Santiago, and there is one circuit court in each of the state's 91 counties. Circuit court judges hear both criminal and civil cases and have the authority to hear appeals from the County Courts. The Santiago County Courts, on the other hand, have limited jurisdiction and handle civil disputes below a certain threshold, citizen disputes such as traffic offenses and misdemeanor criminal offenses, and minor monetary disputes. There is one county court in each county of the state.

Local government
Santiago's local governments are responsible for governing their respective jurisdictions, as granted by the government of Santiago. The creation of these governments is outlined in both the Santiago Constitution and the Santiago Statutes. Local governments are established in Santiago through special acts of the Santiago State Legislature, and are given varying amounts of non-exclusive authority.

There are four types of local governments in Santiago: counties, municipalities, school districts, and special districts. In some instances, municipal and county governments have merged into a consolidated government, while smaller municipalities can exist within a consolidated municipality/county. Multiple consolidated governments have existed in the past, though currently none exist, with most opting to revert to the standard model. Both counties and municipalities may have a legislative branch, which consists of either a board or council, and an executive branch, typically headed by a mayor or manager. Local police departments are also established within the jurisdictions of counties and municipalities, though violations are brought before a county court. Counties and municipalities are authorized to pass laws, levy taxes, and provide public services within their jurisdictions.

In Santiago, all areas are located within a county, but only some have been incorporated into municipalities. Additionally, all municipalities are located within a county and are subject to the county's jurisdiction. In cases where a conflict arises between a county ordinance and a municipal ordinance, the municipal ordinance generally takes precedence within the municipality's borders. However, if the overlaying county has been designated a charter county by the Santiago State Legislature, the county's ordinances will take precedence.

Economy
Santiago's economy, centered on Newport, is diverse and has a mix of industries and sectors that contribute to its growth. The state's economy is the second largest in the country, with a gross state product of €3.65 trillion. Santiago's economy is driven by a combination of agriculture, manufacturing, services, and tourism. In fact, the state is considered the agricultural powerhouse of Cartadania, generating a large portion of its revenues from agricultural sources. Agriculture is a significant industry in Santiago, with the state being the largest producer of coffee, sugar, corn, rice, soybeans, oranges, strawberries, blueberries, and grapes in the country. Santiago is also a leading producer of beef, poultry, and dairy products. The state's agriculture industry is supported by research and development facilities, extension services, and other programs to help farmers increase their productivity and efficiency.

Manufacturing is another significant industry in Santiago, and it is diversified across different sectors. The state is a major producer of aerospace components, medical devices, and electronic products. Santiago is also home to several automotive and transportation-related manufacturing plants, including those of major automaker, Rhea (though headquartered in Victoria). The manufacturing industry in Santiago is supported by a skilled workforce, strong infrastructure, and research and development centers.

Services play a vital role in Santiago's economy, with the state being a major center for tourism, healthcare, and education. The state's healthcare industry is among the largest in the country, with several world-class hospitals and research facilities. Santiago's education industry is also well-developed, with several top-ranked universities and colleges. Tourism is an essential industry in Santiago, with the state being home to many natural attractions, cultural landmarks, and theme parks. The state's beaches, national parks, and historical sites attract millions of visitors every year. Santiago also has a thriving hospitality industry, with many hotels, resorts, and restaurants.

Personal income and taxes
Santiago's median household income is $62,659, meaning it has the 29th highest income in the country, or inversely, is the 6th poorest state in the country. In actuality, the state has low income inequality, and with a population primarily occupying jobs in the agriculture and industrial sectors, its population earns less. This is not to say Santiago has no top earners, but rather, the lower-middle income earners dilute the gaps. In any case, Santiago's residents are still high earners when compared to the world at large.

Santiago has a legacy tax model borrowed from Verona that does not include a state income tax. Instead, the state offsets this with higher sales tax, at 6% for base state rate, increasable to 8.25%, as well as higher property taxes, though the state average still hovers around 1%. Santiago does have a higher fuel tax, at 42 cents per gallon. Santiago earns large portions of its revenue from agriculture and tourism, thus, it has a very low overall tax burden, despite its location in the country.

Despite its economic successes, Santiago still struggles with income relative to its neighboring state. The state's median household income, at $62,659, is below the national average, ranking it as the 6th poorest state in the country. However, Santiago's low income inequality means that the majority of its residents earn similar incomes, thus diluting the gap between the rich and poor.

Santiago's tax model is borrowed from Verona and does not include a state income tax. Instead, the state relies heavily on sales tax, with a base rate of 6% that can be increased up to 8.25%, as well as property taxes. Despite these higher taxes, Santiago still maintains a low overall tax burden, which is primarily due to the state's reliance on agriculture and tourism for revenue. One of the unique features of Santiago's tax system is its higher fuel tax at 42 cents per gallon. This has allowed the state to maintain its infrastructure and improve its transportation network, which is critical for the state's agricultural and tourism industries.

Architecture
Santiago has a rich architectural heritage, influenced by a variety of cultures including Cognatian, Indigenous, and Levantine. The historic architecture of Santiago's capital city is characterized by colonial Cognatian and neoclassical styles, evident in the grand facades of government buildings and churches throughout the city. One of the most notable examples of colonial architecture in Santiago is the Baíavila Cathedral, which was built in the early 17th century and features intricate stone carvings and baroque embellishments.

Santiago's architecture also reflects the state's diverse cultural heritage. The state has a significant population of Indigenous Cartadanians, and their influence can be seen in the traditional houses and other buildings found in rural areas. The state also has a long history of Levantine culture, which is reflected in the architecture of some of the state's historic neighborhoods, such as the Burgundieville district in the city of Santa Maria.

In addition to historic architecture, Santiago is also home to many modern and contemporary buildings, particularly in its urban areas. Skyscrapers and high-rise buildings are common in the state's major cities, reflecting the state's economic growth and modernization.

Education
Santiago's educational system is one of the most extensive in the country, with a vast network of public schools and school districts serving its diverse population. The public school system in Santiago is organized at the county level, with 91 regular school districts and two special school districts, serving a total of 8,283,620 students as of 2030.

Newport County, with more than 620,000 students, is the largest of the regular school districts in Santiago, while Tiberia County is the smallest, with only around 4,000 students. Despite this large variation in district sizes, Santiago remains committed to providing high-quality education to all of its students. In fact, the state spent an average of €19,500 per student, which is the 10th highest in the country when it comes to per-pupil expenditures.

The Santiago Department of Education oversees the primary and secondary school systems in the state. Each school district is governed by an elected Board of Education, which is responsible for setting policy, budgeting, establishing goals, and approving expenditures. The Superintendent of Schools is tasked with the management and oversight of the school districts. One of the unique aspects of education in Santiago is the requirement for the Santiago Department of Education to train educators in teaching Cartadanian for Speakers of Other Languages, known as CAFOL. This is a reflection of the state's diverse population and its commitment to providing education to all students, regardless of their language or backgroun

Higher education
Santiago is home to a robust higher education system. With eight public universities serving the state's population, these universities offer a diverse range of academic programs, from liberal arts and sciences to professional degrees in engineering, law, and medicine.

Santiago Pantanal University, founded in 1706, is the oldest public university in the state and is known for its programs in the humanities and social sciences. Santiago Polytechnic University, established in 1857, offers programs in engineering, architecture, and other technical fields. Santiago Ridgeland University, founded in 1863, has a strong focus on business and management education. Santiago State University, established in 1935, is one of the largest public universities in the state, with over 70,000 students enrolled in its undergraduate and graduate programs. The University of Central Santiago, founded in 1944, offers programs in education, health sciences, and social work. The University of North Santiago, established in 1950, is known for its programs in agriculture, forestry, and natural resources.

The University of Santiago, founded in 1883, is the state's flagship institution and the largest public university in the state. It offers a wide range of academic programs, including programs in law, medicine, and engineering. The university is located on a sprawling campus just outside of Newport and enrolls over 83,000 students as of the most recent school year. Finally, the University of South Santiago, established in 1976, offers programs in the arts, humanities, and social sciences.

The universities in Santiago are known for their high academic standards and research output, and they attract students from all over the country and the world. Many of these universities have well-equipped libraries, research facilities, and cultural centers that serve not only their own students but also the larger community. Additionally, these universities are often major employers in their respective regions, providing job opportunities for faculty, staff, and support personnel. The Santiago State College System plays a critical role in the state's higher education landscape, offering accessible and affordable education to a diverse population of students. The system includes 32 public community and state colleges, each with multiple campuses located throughout the state. This provides students with a range of options for where they can pursue their studies, whether they prefer to stay close to home or explore a different part of the state.

The system's colleges offer a wide range of degree and certificate programs, from associate degrees in technical fields to certificates for training and CEUs. They also provide vocational and workforce training programs that prepare students for jobs in high-demand industries such as healthcare, information technology, and advanced manufacturing.

With over 2.3 million students enrolled in the system as of 2029, the Santiago State College System is one of the largest and most diverse higher education systems in the country. It is committed to providing quality education and support services to all students, including those from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds, such as low-income, first-generation, and minority students. The system also offers extensive resources for students, such as tutoring services, career counseling, and financial aid, to ensure that they have the tools they need to succeed in college and beyond.