Why do Americans(chicanos,white,etc) think that Chile is in Mexico? or just something you add to your food?

I am Chilean and I live in NM. Many Americans (white and chicanos) and even some Mexicans think that the country of Chile is in Mexico.. or right next to Mexico and that we eat the same food,etc....or that Chile is just a sauce you add to Mexican dishes....Don't they get taught anything in school?