Buenos Aires was founded twice. The first foundation was in 1536 by Spanish explorer Pedro de Mendoza, who named it City of the Holy Trinity and Puerto de Santa María del Buen Ayre. However, the first settlement failed due to harsh living conditions and the resistance of the native Querandí people.
The second and lasting foundation took place in 1580, led by Juan de Garay, acting on behalf of the Spanish Crown. He renamed the city City of Trinidad. It began to grow both socially and politically around what is now Plaza de Mayo.
In 1776, Buenos Aires became the capital of the new Viceroyalty of the Río de la Plata, giving it an edge in commerce. Its port and connections to other cities became key economic strengths.
Then came the struggles for independence. On May 25, 1810, local Creoles sought to end Spanish rule and formed the First National Government. Later, on July 9, 1816, full independence was declared in Tucumán, with Buenos Aires playing a central role.
Growth, Immigration, and Culture
During the second half of the 19th century, with the rise of industry and railroads, the port became the country’s economic hub. Argentina, known as the granary of the world, welcomed large waves of immigrants, encouraged by the government.
Spaniards, Italians, Syrians, Lebanese, Poles, and Russians all contributed to a rich, eclectic culture. From this mix emerged tango, now a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, as well as lunfardo, a local slang born in immigrant boarding houses and hotels.
In the 20th century, more migrants arrived from other provinces, Latin America, and Asia, further shaping the city’s diversity. Buenos Aires became a melting pot of cultures, religions, and traditions.
Challenges and Progress
The city faced numerous epidemics due to poverty and overcrowding. The most devastating was the yellow fever outbreak in 1871, yet Buenos Aires always found ways to recover and move forward.
In 1880, it was declared the Federal Capital of Argentina. By the early 1900s, it had earned the nickname “The Paris of South America” thanks to its elegant architecture, parks, and boulevards inspired by French design.
For the Centennial of the May Revolution in 1910, major landmarks like Avenida de Mayo, the Bosques de Palermo, and the Teatro Colón were highlighted. Staying true to its modern spirit, Buenos Aires opened the first subway in Latin America, the eleventh in the world.
The 1930s saw the appearance of the Obelisk, the city’s most iconic monument. A few years later, Avenida 9 de Julio became the main artery of Buenos Aires.
In 1994, a major constitutional reform gave the city autonomy, allowing citizens to elect their own government. Buenos Aires then became the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires.
This is just a glimpse of its 400+ years of history, during which Buenos Aires evolved into the cosmopolitan, dynamic, and complex city we see today.
What Is the Origin of the Name Buenos Aires?
The name was chosen during the first foundation in 1536. Its full title was Real de Nuestra Señora Santa María del Buen Ayre. Pedro de Mendoza named it in honor of Our Lady of Good Air, the patron saint of Sevillian sailors.
During the second foundation in 1580, Juan de Garay renamed it Ciudad de la Trinidad. Interestingly, this name remained official until 1996, when the current name, Autonomous City of Buenos Aires, was adopted.
Despite its formal titles, people often refer to the city as “Baires” or CABA, short for Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires.
How to Pronounce Buenos Aires?
Buenos Aires means “good airs.” Here’s how to pronounce it:
