by Angie Pollock

Created on: September 22, 2009

Guyana is the largest of three territories that share an area of the northeastern coast of South America. Along with Suriname (formerly known as Dutch Guiana) and French Guiana, these three territories share many similarities and are sometimes referred to collectively as the Guianas. Before Guyana gained its independence from Great Britain in 1966, it was known as British Guiana. The name "Guyana" derives from the Indian word "guiana" or "land of waters".

Interesting Facts about the People

The people of Guyana come from a vast array of different ethnic backgrounds. Approximately half of the people are descendants of India while smaller portions include those of Portuguese and Chinese backgrounds. There are still original South American Indians that live in the country but many had previously left to escape slavery forced upon them during European control. Other ethnic groups include ancestors of African slaves that were brought in by Great Britain to work as laborers.

Most of the people are Christian although many of the East Indians are mainly Hindus or Muslim. English is the official language of Guyana but many languages are spoken throughout the country including Hindi, Urdu, Portuguese, and Chinese. Unlike some of the other poorer South American countries, most of the people of Guyana are educated.

Interesting Facts about the Land

"Land of waters" describes Guyana well. The country has many rivers and streams that flow through the country with the three largest being the Berbice, the Demerara, and the Essequibo. A mountainous region is located in the west that contains glorious waterfalls, Kaieteur Falls plunges from a height of over 740 feet and is known for its mesmerizing rainbow mists.

Interesting Historical Facts

The first known inhabitants of this area were Indians of different tribes including the Carib, Arawak, and Warrau. The Dutch first came to the country during the 1600s and later the British began establishing settlements which left the two countries struggling for control for many years. Three colonies were given to Great Britain in 1814 which came to be known as British Guiana. The country broke free in 1966 and finally became a republic in 1970.

Other Facts and Figures

Georgetown is the capital and most populated city of Guyana. The country covers approximately 83,000 square miles and has an estimated population of about 750 thousand people. The chief agricultural products include sugarcane, rice, timber, and fruits. Minerals found in the country include gold and bauxite. The beautiful landscape, beaches, and local wildlife are touted as some of the most spectacular in South America, making Guyana a popular tourist destination.

References:

THE NEW BOOK OF KNOWLEDGE, Grolier, copyright 2003.

GUYANA (BRADT TRAVEL GUIDE), by Kirk Smock, copyright 2008.

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