Guyana
Flag of Guyana
Flag is available in resolutions
| Icon 88x53 |  |
| Icon 32x19 |  |
Guyana
Guyana: A Land of Unfolding Wonders
Guyana, situated on the northern coast of South America, is a nation often overlooked, yet brimming with a unique tapestry of natural beauty, a rich and complex history, and a vibrant, multicultural populace. Its name, derived from the indigenous word “guiana,” meaning “land of many waters,” aptly describes its defining geographical feature: a vast network of rivers, cascading waterfalls, and dense rainforests that cover the majority of its territory. This immense natural wealth, coupled with a history shaped by colonial powers and the resilience of its people, makes Guyana a compelling subject for exploration.
The population of Guyana is a fascinating mosaic, a testament to its colonial past and its continued role as a crossroads of cultures. The majority of Guyanese people are of South Asian descent, primarily Indian, brought to the country as indentured laborers during the British colonial era to work on the sugar plantations. This heritage is deeply ingrained in Guyanese society, influencing its cuisine, religious practices, and cultural traditions. Alongside the Indo-Guyanese population, there is a significant Afro-Guyanese community, descendants of enslaved Africans who were also brought to the colony for plantation labor. Their cultural influence is equally profound, evident in music, dance, and religious expressions. Indigenous peoples, comprising various Amerindian tribes such as the Akawaio, Arawak, Carib, and Wapishana, have inhabited this land for millennia and continue to play a vital role in preserving Guyanas natural heritage and cultural identity, particularly in the interior regions. Completing this diverse demographic are smaller communities of Chinese, European, and mixed-race individuals, all contributing to the unique social fabric of the nation. This rich blend of ethnicities and cultures has fostered a tolerant and harmonious society, where traditions from around the world coexist and intermingle, creating a distinctive Guyanese identity. The official language is English, a legacy of British rule, but Guyanese Creole, a vibrant patois, is widely spoken and serves as a unifying linguistic force.
Guyanas history is a narrative of exploration, exploitation, and eventual independence. The first European contact was made by the Spanish in the 16th century, but it was the Dutch who established the first permanent settlements in the early 17th century, naming the region Essequibo, Demerara, and Berbice. These colonies were primarily focused on agriculture, particularly sugar cultivation, which relied heavily on enslaved African labor. In 1796, during the Napoleonic Wars, the British seized control of the Dutch colonies, and they were formally ceded to Britain in 1814. The British consolidated the colonies into British Guiana, and the plantation economy continued to thrive, albeit with immense human suffering. The abolition of slavery in 1834 led to a significant shift in labor practices, with the introduction of indentured laborers from India and, to a lesser extent, China, to fill the void. This period of indentured servitude, while exploitative, profoundly shaped the demographic and cultural landscape of Guyana. The mid-20th century saw the rise of nationalist movements advocating for self-governance. Dr. Cheddi Jagan, a prominent figure in the Peoples Progressive Party (PPP), emerged as a leader in the struggle for independence. After years of political maneuvering and social unrest, British Guiana gained its independence on May 26, 1966, and was renamed Guyana. The post-independence era has been marked by political challenges, economic fluctuations, and the ongoing quest for national development, with the nation striving to harness its vast natural resources for the benefit of its people.
Geographically, Guyana is a land of dramatic contrasts. Its coastline, stretching along the Atlantic Ocean, is characterized by fertile alluvial plains, historically the heartland of its agricultural production. However, the vast interior is dominated by dense tropical rainforests, part of the Guiana Shield, one of the most pristine wilderness areas in the world. This interior is crisscrossed by numerous rivers, the lifeblood of the nation, facilitating transportation and providing sustenance. The Essequibo River, the largest river in Guyana and one of the longest in South America, is a dominant geographical feature, flowing from the highlands to the Atlantic. Towering mountains, such as Mount Roraima, a massive table-top mountain that straddles the borders of Guyana, Venezuela, and Brazil, punctuate the landscape, their sheer cliffs and unique ecosystems inspiring awe and wonder. The Kaieteur Falls, the worlds largest single-drop waterfall by volume of water, is a breathtaking spectacle, plunging over 740 feet into a mist-shrouded gorge, a powerful testament to natures raw beauty. The climate is tropical, with high temperatures and humidity year-round, punctuated by distinct wet and dry seasons. This diverse geography supports an incredibly rich biodiversity, with numerous endemic species of flora and fauna found nowhere else on Earth.
The Guyanese economy has historically been driven by its natural resources. Agriculture, particularly sugar and rice cultivation, has been a cornerstone for centuries, though it has faced challenges in recent decades due to global market fluctuations and changing trade dynamics. Bauxite mining has also played a significant role in the economy, with Guyana being a major producer of this essential mineral used in aluminum production. Gold mining has seen a resurgence in recent years, becoming an increasingly important export commodity. However, the most transformative development in Guyanas economic landscape has been the discovery and exploitation of offshore oil reserves. This has positioned Guyana as a rapidly emerging oil producer, with the potential to significantly boost its economy and improve the living standards of its citizens. While this presents immense opportunities, it also brings challenges related to resource management, environmental protection, and ensuring equitable distribution of wealth. The government is actively working to diversify the economy and invest in sectors such as tourism, forestry, and renewable energy to create a more resilient and sustainable economic future.
Despite its relatively undeveloped tourism infrastructure compared to some of its South American neighbors, Guyana offers a unique and compelling experience for adventurous travelers. The primary draw is its unparalleled natural beauty and its commitment to ecotourism. The Iwokrama International Centre for Rainforest Conservation and Development is a prime example, offering visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the rainforest, engage in wildlife spotting, and learn about conservation efforts. Birdwatching is a major attraction, with Guyana boasting an incredible diversity of avian species, including the iconic Harpy Eagle and the Guianan Cock-of-the-rock. Exploring the interior rivers by boat provides a glimpse into the lives of indigenous communities and the untouched wilderness. The Kaieteur Falls, as mentioned, is a must-see, its sheer power and majestic setting leaving an indelible impression. Beyond its natural wonders, Guyanas cultural heritage offers further exploration. Visiting the Stabroek Market in Georgetown, the capital city, is a sensory overload, a bustling hub of activity where vendors sell everything from fresh produce to local crafts. The historic architecture of Georgetown, with its colonial-era buildings, provides a glimpse into the countrys past. For those seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventure, Guyana promises an unforgettable journey into a land of vibrant cultures and untamed nature.
Information about Guyana
The information comes from the publication CIA The World Factbook.
Automated text translation, excuse errors, please!
Country Guyana is situated in a location / continent South America. Guyana has an area of 214 969 km2 and 741 908 residents. The highest point has a height 2 835 above sea level. and it is called Mount Roraima. The lowest point is located at the level of 0 above sea level and it is named Atlantic Ocean. System of government is republic and the date of independence 26th May 1966. The capital city is Georgetown. Guyana has the international abbreviation GY.
Guyana - economy
Total gross domestic product (GDP) is 5 857 000 000 $. Total gross domestic product per capita in purchasing power parity is 7 600 $. GDP grows by 4.20 % a year. Inflation (consumer price index) is equal to 2.20 % a year. Guyana have 313 100 working-age population (from a total population 741 908 people). Unemployment is at 11.00 %. Guyana issued 6.10 % GDP to healt care and 1,80 % GDP to army. The public debt of the country is 62.10 % GDP. The total amount of foreign debt is 1 234 000 000 USD.
Guyana - demography
As suggested above, Guyana has 741 908 people. Population growth is in the amount -0.33 % per year. Number of children born per 1000 population per year is 16.69.Every mother has average 2.27 children. The infant mortality rate is 35.59 and maternal mortality 280.00 deaths per 100,000 births. Average estimated life expectancy makes 67.39 years. Mortality is 7.18 people per 1000 population per year.
Guyana - transport and telecommunications
Guyana has 7 970 km of roads and 98 airports. The total length of waterways (navigable rivers, canals, etc.) is 330 km. There is registered 10 ships.
Number of active mobile phones (sim card) in the country Guyana is 518 800. Number of active fixed telephone lines is 152 600. Guyana has 189 600 internet users, who have the available 24 840 Internet connections. Guyana has been assigned a domain first Choose range .gy.
Guyana - energetics
Guyana consumes a year 683 000 000 kWh of electricity. Annual electricity production is 817 000 000 kWh in power plants with a total installed electrical capacity 343 000 kW. Guyana exports 0 kWh and imports 0 kWh of electricity per year Energy mix of power generation is as follows: fossil fuels: 99.7 %, nuclear energy: 0 %, renewable: 0.0 %, hydropower: 0.3 %.
Keywords: demography, information, flags of countries in the world, Flag of Guyana, flag states, economy, list of countries, Guyana, list of flags, flag, world countries, national flags, Flags of countries, energetics, telecommunications, transport, all flags, politic.