Argentine real facts for kids
The real was an important currency used in Argentina a long time ago. It was the very first currency Argentina used after it became independent. People used the real from 1813 until 1881.
During the time the real was used, another currency called the sol was also in use. One sol was worth the same as one real. Other coins were also around: a peso was worth 8 reales, and an escudo was worth 16 reales.
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What Was the Real?
The real was a type of money that people used to buy and sell things in Argentina. It was very important because it helped the new country manage its economy. Before the real, Argentina used currencies from other countries, like Spain.
How Was the Real Used?
People used the real for everyday shopping, just like we use dollars or pesos today. You could buy food, clothes, or pay for services with reales. It helped trade happen smoothly across the country.
Why Did Argentina Need Its Own Money?
After Argentina declared its independence from Spain, it was important for the country to have its own symbols. Having its own currency, like the real, showed that Argentina was a sovereign nation. It also helped the government control its own money system.
When Was the Real Used?
The real was used for many years, from 1813 to 1881. This period was a time of big changes for Argentina as it grew as a new nation.
The Start of the Real (1813)
The real was introduced in 1813. This was a few years after Argentina started its fight for independence. Having a new currency was a big step in building a new country.
The End of the Real (1881)
The real stopped being used in 1881. By this time, Argentina's economy had grown a lot. The country decided to switch to a new, more modern currency system. The Argentine peso became the main currency, which is still used today.
Other Currencies Used with the Real
While the real was the main currency, other types of money were also used alongside it. This was common in many countries during that time.
The Sol
The sol was another currency that had the same value as the real. Sometimes, coins would be called "soles" instead of "reales," but they were worth the same.
The Peso
The peso was a larger unit of money. One peso was equal to 8 reales. This was useful for bigger purchases or for counting larger amounts of money.
The Escudo
The escudo was an even larger unit. One escudo was worth 16 reales. This shows how different values of money were used together to make transactions easier.
Why Currencies Change
Countries often change their currencies over time. This can happen for many reasons, like to make the money system simpler, to fight inflation, or to match international standards. When Argentina stopped using the real, it was part of modernizing its financial system.
See Also
In Spanish: Real argentino para niños
