Uruguay ranks as the least corrupt and most democratic country in Latin America, and along with Chile, is rated as a “high income” country by the United Nations. Uruguay used to be known as the “Switzerland of South America,” in part because of its banking regulations, but mainly for deep respect for the rule of law. “‘Nation’ is not a word we often use,” says the Uruguayan historian Gerardo Caetano. “We prefer republic.” “I didn’t go to Pope Francis’ inauguration,” said ex president Mujica. “Why should I? Uruguay is a lay country. I respect Francis as a person and religious leader”