Hito Esmeralda facts for kids
The Hito Esmeralda (which means Emerald Landmark in English) is a very special place where the borders of three countries meet: Argentina, Bolivia, and Paraguay. Imagine standing in one spot and being able to point to three different countries! This unique geographical point is located right on the edge of the Pilcomayo River. It sits at an altitude of about 200 meters (around 656 feet) above sea level.
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What is a Tripoint?
A tripoint is exactly what it sounds like: a single spot where the boundaries of three different countries or regions come together. These points are often marked by special monuments or markers, like the one at Hito Esmeralda. They are important because they clearly show where one country ends and another begins.
Where is the Hito Esmeralda Located?
This important border marker is found within a large region of South America called the Gran Chaco. The Gran Chaco is a vast, mostly flat area known for its dry forests and grasslands.
More precisely, the Hito Esmeralda is about 8 kilometers (5 miles) northeast of a town in Argentina called Santa Victoria Este. It's also about 8 kilometers north of La Merced Mission. Both of these places are in the Salta Province of Argentina. The Pilcomayo River itself acts as a natural border in this area.
How Were These Borders Decided?
The borders in the Gran Chaco region, including the one at Hito Esmeralda, have a long history. One important step in defining these limits was the Hayes Case in 1878. This was a decision made by an international arbitrator (someone who helps settle disagreements) that helped sort out who owned what land in the region.
Later, in 1939, a special agreement called a treaty was signed in Buenos Aires, Argentina. This treaty was about confirming the borders. It was then officially approved in Asunción, Paraguay, in 1945. These agreements helped make sure everyone knew exactly where the borders were, creating peace and clear lines between the countries.
Why are Border Tripoints Important?
Border tripoints like the Hito Esmeralda are more than just dots on a map. They are symbols of international cooperation and agreements. They show how countries can work together to define their territories peacefully. For people living near these borders, they represent the meeting of different cultures and ways of life. They are also important for navigation and for managing shared resources, like rivers.
See also
In Spanish: Hito Esmeralda para niños
