Guyana came under British control in the 18th century, but gained independence on 26th May 1966, and officially became a republic on the 23rd February 1970
Interesting facts about Guyana:
– In Guyana’s total population, 36 percent of the residents are of African descent, while half of the people are of East Indian origin.
– Amerindians were the original inhabitants of the region.
– It is the only South American country where English is the main language, but the majority of the population do speak Guyanese Creole.
– Guyana is an Amerindian word meaning “land of many waters.” The longest river in Guyana is the Essequibo River, which is 1,609 km long.
– About 70 percent of the total area of Guyana is covered with rain forests.
– Despite the fact that Guyana has plenty of forest cover, its ancient soil is infertile and a majority of its populations lives in coastal areas.
– The Kaieteur Falls in Guyana are one of the most powerful waterfalls in the world and 5 times the height of Niagara Fall.
– Guyana is home to the largest gold mine in South America, the Omai gold mine.
– Export of sugar and rum is the main commercial activity in the country.
– Guyana has approximately 8000 species of plants, some of which cannot be found anywhere else in the world.
– Guyana is famous for locally made beautiful craft which includes paintings, wallets, sun hats, costume jewellry and many other items.
– Guyana’s national sport is cricket, it is part of the West Indies Team and in 2007, they hosted the cricket World Cup.
Happy independence day Guyana
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Dansk