Answer: Spain
Explanation: The seven southern countries of South America are Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Uruguay, Paraguay, Argentina, and Chile.
Each of these countries experienced conquest by Spain. Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia were home to the highly civilized Inca Indians. The wealth of this civilization attracted the Spanish conquerors. The Spanish invaded Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia. They were merciless to the Incas. The Incan civilization was destroyed. Its wealth was taken. The Indians of Uruguay were very hostile. Their fierceness kept European conquerors away for many years. Spain did control Uruguay for a short time. The Indians of Paraguay were peaceful farmers. These farmers were easily conquered by the Spanish. Argentina was also controlled by Spain. Spain conquered Chile as well. Chile did not have the riches that interested Spain. Today, each of these countries is an independent nation. Each elects a president to head the government. Most presidents are members of the military.