Guyana

LocationNetherlandsGuiana

Boundary lines of British Guiana 1896.jpg

GuyanaKaieteurFalls2004

Rupununi Savannah

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Guyana, officially the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, is a sovereign state on the northern mainland of South America. It is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the north, Brazil to the south and southwest, Venezuela to the west, and Suriname to the east. With an area of 214,970 square kilometers (83,000 sq mi), Guyana is the third-smallest sovereign state on mainland South America after Uruguay and Suriname.

History

The region known as Guyana was originally inhabited by several indigenous groups, including the Arawak and Carib tribes. The first European to sight Guyana was Christopher Columbus in 1498. The Dutch were the first to establish colonies in the region in the 17th century, which were later taken over by the British Empire in the 18th century. Guyana gained its independence from the United Kingdom on May 26, 1966, and became a republic on February 23, 1970.

Geography

Guyana is characterized by its vast rainforests, savannahs, and mountain ranges. The country is divided into three main geographical regions: the coastal plain, the white sand belt, and the interior highlands. The Essequibo River, the largest river in Guyana, flows from the Acarai Mountains in the south to the Atlantic Ocean in the north.

Demographics

Guyana has a diverse population of approximately 786,000 people. The largest ethnic groups are the Indo-Guyanese, who are descendants of indentured laborers from India, and the Afro-Guyanese, who are descendants of African slaves. Other ethnic groups include the Amerindians, Chinese, and Europeans.

Economy

The economy of Guyana is primarily based on agriculture, mining, and forestry. Major agricultural products include sugar, rice, and tropical fruits. The country is also rich in natural resources such as bauxite, gold, and diamonds. In recent years, the discovery of significant offshore oil reserves has the potential to transform the economy.

Culture

Guyana's culture is a blend of Indian, African, Amerindian, and European influences. The country is known for its vibrant festivals, such as Mashramani, which celebrates Guyana's Republic Day, and Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights. Cricket is the most popular sport in Guyana, reflecting its British colonial heritage.

Government and Politics

Guyana is a unitary state and a parliamentary republic. The President of Guyana is both the head of state and the head of government. The National Assembly of Guyana is the country's unicameral legislative body. The judiciary is independent and is based on the English common law system.

Administrative Divisions

Guyana is divided into ten administrative regions:

• Barima-Waini
• Pomeroon-Supenaam
• Essequibo Islands-West Demerara
• Demerara-Mahaica
• Mahaica-Berbice
• East Berbice-Corentyne
• Cuyuni-Mazaruni
• Potaro-Siparuni
• Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo
• Upper Demerara-Berbice

See Also

• Geography of Guyana
• History of Guyana
• Economy of Guyana
• Culture of Guyana
• Politics of Guyana

   Coordinates:
   
       4°N 
       58°W
   

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