an independent territory of South America, between Lat. 37. and 39. 50. S. and Long. 70. and 75. 20. W. It is bounded on the north by the river Biobio, which separates it from Chili, south by the Valdivia, east by the Andes, and west by the Pacific Ocean.

The Araucanians are remarkable for the fierce and almost uninterrupted struggle they have maintained for upwards of 300 years against the encroachments of the Spaniards on their territory. They are of moderate stature, strong, muscular, and well-built, with a light copper complexion, lank hair, oval faces, prominent cheek-bones, the nose somewhat flat, the eyes small, and expressive of vivacity. Their general aspect indicates some degree of sternness and resolution; they are bold and intrepid in war, patiently enduring fatigue, and fearlessly exposing their lives.

The country is divided into four tetrarchies, each governed by a Toqui. Each tetrarchy is divided into five provinces, governed by an Apo-ulmen, and each of the provinces is subdivided into nine districts, severally presided over by an Ulmen. The Toquis are independent of each other, but form a federal union for the public welfare. They have no maintenance from the state, nor are their subjects bound to render them any kind of personal service, except in time of war. A great council, composed of Toquis, Apo-ulmens, and Ulmens is convened upon any emergency. In time of war, a commander-in-chief is chosen, generally from the Toquis, but should none of them possess the requisite qualifications, one of the inferior rulers is elected. The others swear obedience to him, and furnish him with their contingent of men. Before the arrival of the Spaniards their army of course consisted of infantry only; but they soon saw the value of cavalry, and in a short time they could muster a considerable body of horse. The cavalry are armed with lances and swords; the infantry with pikes and clubs mounted with iron. Formerly they used the sling and bow, but these were soon laid aside. Every soldier is the rightful possessor of the booty he can seize; but a fair division is made of the plunder taken in common, the toqui himself receiving no larger share than a private soldier.

Their religious system is somewhat similar to their political government. They believe in a supreme Being, whom they call the Spirit of Heaven, and who is the great toqui of the universe. Under this spirit there are apo-ulmens, or inferior deities, and in the lowest rank are ulmens or genii. They have no temples, idols, or priests, and only sacrifice on solemn occasions. They believe in the immortality of the soul. Polygamy prevails among them; a man being allowed as many wives as he can purchase. Their principal wealth consists in flocks and herds, and their industry is confined to husbandry. See America, Chili.