Santiago

Santiago
State
State of Santiago Estado de Santiago
Flag Seal
Nickname(s):  The Meridian State
Motto(s):  Ex amicitia
Anthem: Hino santiaguino
Map of Cartadania with Santiago highlighted
Country	Cartadania
Before statehood	Regio Sancti
Admitted to the Union	5 January 1611 (3rd)
Capital	Suriana
Largest city	Newport
Largest metro	Greater Newport
Government
• Governor	Matteo Castano
• Lieutenant Governor	Amari Enseña
Legislature	Santiago State Legislature
• Upper house	Senate
• Lower house	House of Emissaries
Judiciary	Supreme Court of Santiago
Senators	3
Chamber delegation	60
Area
• Total	392,927 km2 (151,710 sq mi)
Area rank	2nd
Elevation	306 m (1,004 ft)
Highest elevation (Meridian Apex)	3,428.8 m (11,249.3 ft)
Lowest elevation (Jordas Bay)	0 m (0 ft)
Population  (2027)
• Total	43,880,933
• Rank	2nd
• Density	165.3/km2 (428.2/sq mi)
• Median household income	€62,659
• Income rank	26th
Demonym(s)	Santiaguino(a) Santiagan
Language
• Official language	Cartadanian
• Spoken language	Pelaxian Latin
Time zone	UTC-1:00 (Central Standard Time)
CCor abbreviation	CA-SG
Trad. abbreviation	Stgo.
Website	www.santiago.gov.ca

Santiago state symbols
Flag of Santiago
Seal of Santiago
Living insignia
Amphibian	Hyla cinerea
Bird	Calypte anna
Butterfly	Trogonoptera brookiana
Flower	Nerium
Mammal	Land: Panthera onca (State animal) Marine: Common bottlenose dolphin
Reptile	Crotaphytus collaris
Tree	Syagrus romanzoffiana
Inanimate insignia
Dinosaur	Herrerasaurus ischigualastensis
Food	Papaya
Fossil	Paradoxides
Gemstone	Peridot
Mineral	Beryl
Motto	Ex amicitia
Nickname	The Meridian State
Shell	Fighting conch
Song	Hino santiaguino
List of Cartadanian state symbols

Santiago, officially the State of Santiago (Cartadanian: Estado de 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 tourism, agriculture, defense, and transportation, 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 Roxo, 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 minoritarian elite 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 Roxo, 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

Corn field with Meridian Apex in the distance

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 265,430.7 square kilometers (102,483.4 sq mi), 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 kilometers (140 mi) offshore.

This region of Santiago, known as the Cerrado, contributes around 60% of the state's agriculture.

Santiago is home to Meridian Apex (Apex Meridiana), a prominent peak towering at an elevation of 3,429 meters (11,250 ft) 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 meters (299 ft). 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 kilometers (155 mi) or more away from the coastline, have a more undulating topography, with rolling hills rising between 30 to 76 meters (98 to 249 ft). 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

One of Santiago's active granite quarries.

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.