Uruguay on Wednesday legalized euthanasia, becoming one of the first countries in Latin America and among a dozen worldwide to allow assisted suicide.

The small South American country has a long history of passing socially liberal laws, legalizing marijuana, same-sex marriage and abortion long before most others.

On Wednesday, euthanasia was added to the list with the Senate approving the so-called "Dignified Death" bill, garnering 20 votes in favor out of a total of 31 legislators present, passing a law approved by the lower Chamber of Representatives in August.

The vote came after 10 hours of debate on an issue several lawmakers called "the most difficult."

The discussion was largely respectful and often emotional, though some onlookers watching the debate cried out "murderers" after

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