So in my History class, we just finished learning about la conquista, when the Spaniards came to Chile and colonized it. It is basically the same as every other European conquest, so of course we talked a little about how the Europeans brought over diseases that the indigenous Chileans weren't immune to. (Fun fact: The Europeans brought gonorrhea to America, but Americans gave syphilis to Europe!) In Chile, and many other places, disease killed more indigenous people than war or slavery.
Well, remember how I had a cold last week? It lasted all of 3 days (although my sore throat was prolonged due to my love of kareoke and loud parties) and now I am totally recovered and feeling healthy as a horse. HOWEVER, my host sister has been sick since Friday with a cold that also gave her a fever, and now my host mom has a sore throat... I feel like a conquistador. But on the plus side, I'm pretty sure my family is going to recover de pronto, and also, the whole city of Valdivia is resfriado right now.
Speaking of Chilean history, Independence Day is only 4 days away!!!! Bicentenario! And afterward, we have a week off of school ("Spring Break") and I am officially going to Valparaiso/Viña del Mar with some of my friends for the week! In Valpo and Viña there are beaches and sun and tons of fun places, I am told. Plus, my amiga Kristin has been studying abroad there for the past 6 months so I'll get to reunite with her! Stoked!
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