Almost all Argentines are descendants of immigrants from Europe, and Argentine culture is a lively blend of European costums and Latin American innovations. Whereas earlier generations of intellectuals, writers, filmmakers, and artists looked to European models, the country has developed artistic forms that are uniquely Argentine. Most famously the tango, Argentina’s great cultural hybrids, a music style and dance that emerged from the poor immigrant quarters of Buenos Aires toward the end of the 19th century and quickly became famous around the world as a symbol of Argentine culture.

“Daily life in Argentina’s cities is much as it is in those of southern Europe: businesses and shops open early, close for a long break at midday, and stay open into the evening; social life takes place both in the streets and in lively bars and nightclubs; and meals are an opportunity for convivial exchanges. Argentinians have a passion for beef cooked on the grill, which is preferred to other meats and fish. Buenos Aires is renowned for its steakhouses. Maté, the native tealike beverage brewed from yerba maté leaves, is popular in the countryside and is drunk from a gourd through a strainer; it is either sipped individually or shared in an important social ritual. Moreover, Argentina is one of the largest wine producers in the world, and its varietal red wines are highly prized by connoisseurs, though most production goes toward supplying high domestic consumption.”