peru

• country in south america
the republic of peru is a country in western south america. it was a spanish colony from the 16th century to 1826. in recent years the guerrilla activities of a maoist group, sendero luminoso (shining path), and other armed factions, have threatened public order. large parts of the country are under a state of emergency. alberto keinyo fujimori, of the new majority alliance, became president in 1990. in 1992 he seized control of all sections of government and suspended the constitution. peru is the world's largest exporter of fishmeal. it also produces copper, lead, zinc, cotton, sugar, and coffee. cocaine is illegally produced. high inflation and large foreign debts are major economic problems. peru is a member of the organization of american states.