Country projectjustin

Country ProjectCountry ProjectBy Justin CoffeyBy Justin Coffey

BruneiBrunei

Country Description Country Description

Official Name: Brunei DarussalamOfficial Name: Brunei Darussalam

Capital: Bandar Seri BegawanCapital: Bandar Seri Begawan

Size: 2,226 sq milesSize: 2,226 sq miles

Climate: Tropical; hot, humid, rainy.Climate: Tropical; hot, humid, rainy.

Location: Southeastern Asia, bordering the Location: Southeastern Asia, bordering the South China Sea and MalaysiaSouth China Sea and Malaysia

Population: 407,000 as 2010Population: 407,000 as 2010

Flag Flag DescriptionDescription

•Yellow is the color of royalty Yellow is the color of royalty and symbolizes the sultanate and symbolizes the sultanate •White and Black bands White and Black bands indicate Brunei's chief ministersindicate Brunei's chief ministers•Emblem has five major parts: Emblem has five major parts: 1.1.A swallowed-tailed flag.A swallowed-tailed flag.2.2.The royal umbrella represents The royal umbrella represents the monarchy. the monarchy. 3.3.The wings of four feathers The wings of four feathers symbolize justice, tranquility, symbolize justice, tranquility, prosperity, and peace. prosperity, and peace. 4.4.The two upraised hands The two upraised hands signify the government's signify the government's pledge to preserve and pledge to preserve and promote the welfare of the promote the welfare of the people.people.5.5. The crescent moon indicates The crescent moon indicates Islam, the state religion.Islam, the state religion.• The state motto "Always The state motto "Always render service with God's render service with God's guidance" appears in yellow guidance" appears in yellow Arabic script on the crescent; a Arabic script on the crescent; a ribbon below the crescent says ribbon below the crescent says "Brunei, the Abode of Peace”."Brunei, the Abode of Peace”.

Geographic FeaturesGeographic Features

Terrain: Flat coastal plain rises to mountains in east and Terrain: Flat coastal plain rises to mountains in east and hilly lowland in west.hilly lowland in west.

Natural Resources: Petroleum, natural gas and timber.Natural Resources: Petroleum, natural gas and timber.

Fauna: Asian elephants, orangutans, clouded leopards Fauna: Asian elephants, orangutans, clouded leopards and proboscis monkeys.and proboscis monkeys.

Flora: Virgin Tropical rainforests, mangrove forests along Flora: Virgin Tropical rainforests, mangrove forests along the river estuaries and coastal coral reef gardens.the river estuaries and coastal coral reef gardens.

Natural Hazards: Typhoons, earthquakes, and severe Natural Hazards: Typhoons, earthquakes, and severe flooding but all are rare.flooding but all are rare.

Brunei is close to vital sea lanes through South China Sea Brunei is close to vital sea lanes through South China Sea linking Indian and Pacific Oceans; two parts physically linking Indian and Pacific Oceans; two parts physically separated by Malaysia; almost an enclave of Malaysiaseparated by Malaysia; almost an enclave of Malaysia


Points of Interest: Kuala Belalong Mini Park- has a Points of Interest: Kuala Belalong Mini Park- has a pond for remote controlled boats.pond for remote controlled boats.

Kuala Belalong Rainforest Field Studies Centre: Kuala Belalong Rainforest Field Studies Centre: The centre was established as a training and The centre was established as a training and research base focusing on the study of Brunei's research base focusing on the study of Brunei's lowland tropical forests. A streamside complex of lowland tropical forests. A streamside complex of seven timber houses, the centre provides field seven timber houses, the centre provides field research facilities catering to a range of enquiry research facilities catering to a range of enquiry levels.levels.

Bukit Patoi Recreational Park: The park has many Bukit Patoi Recreational Park: The park has many unusual cave and rock formations and is home to unusual cave and rock formations and is home to a variety of readily seen wildlife such as Borneo's a variety of readily seen wildlife such as Borneo's native kijang (deer).native kijang (deer).


VacationVacation

Meragang Beach, Meragang Beach, sometimes called sometimes called crocodile beach. There crocodile beach. There are no animal like are no animal like crocodiles on the beach. crocodiles on the beach. While there you could While there you could catch a warm sea breeze catch a warm sea breeze or watch a brilliant or watch a brilliant sunset or see a double sunset or see a double rainbow. Meragang rainbow. Meragang Beach is near the Jalan Beach is near the Jalan Meragang junction.Meragang junction.

Meragang BeachMeragang Beach

HistoryHistory

From the 14th to the 16th centuries Brunei was a From the 14th to the 16th centuries Brunei was a powerful sultanate extending over Sabah, powerful sultanate extending over Sabah, Sarawak and the lower Philippines.Sarawak and the lower Philippines.

By the 19th century, the Brunei Empire had been By the 19th century, the Brunei Empire had been whittled away by wars, piracy and the colonial whittled away by wars, piracy and the colonial expansion of European powers.expansion of European powers.

In 1847, the sultan concluded a treaty with Great In 1847, the sultan concluded a treaty with Great Britain and in 1888 Brunei officially became a Britain and in 1888 Brunei officially became a British protectorate.British protectorate.

In 1906, the Residential System was established In 1906, the Residential System was established in Brunei and the British resident advised the in Brunei and the British resident advised the sultan in all matters except Malay customs, sultan in all matters except Malay customs, traditions and Islamic religion. traditions and Islamic religion.

History History

The 1959 Agreement established a written constitution which gave The 1959 Agreement established a written constitution which gave Brunei Darussalam a self-government.Brunei Darussalam a self-government.

In 1971, the agreement was amended and revised to assert full In 1971, the agreement was amended and revised to assert full independence except defense and external affairs.independence except defense and external affairs.

In 1967 Sultan Haji Sir Muda Omar Ali Saifuddien abdicated in favor of his In 1967 Sultan Haji Sir Muda Omar Ali Saifuddien abdicated in favor of his son Pengiran Muda Mahkota Hassanal Bolkiah. son Pengiran Muda Mahkota Hassanal Bolkiah.

On January 1, 1984 Brunei gained full independence from the United On January 1, 1984 Brunei gained full independence from the United Kingdom and the Sultan took office as Prime Minister, Finance Minister Kingdom and the Sultan took office as Prime Minister, Finance Minister and Home Affairs Minister, having authority over a cabinet of six.and Home Affairs Minister, having authority over a cabinet of six.

In October 1986, the cabinet was expanded to 11 members while the In October 1986, the cabinet was expanded to 11 members while the Sultan gave up his power over the finance and home affairs cabinets for Sultan gave up his power over the finance and home affairs cabinets for control of the defense cabinet.control of the defense cabinet.

In 1988 the Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources were created and In 1988 the Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources were created and aimed at boosting Brunei’s development aimed at boosting Brunei’s development

HistoryHistory

Current Event: The 17th annual Special Convention for Women was held at the Current Event: The 17th annual Special Convention for Women was held at the International Convention Centre February 26th, 2011. Her Majesty Raja Isteri Pengiran International Convention Centre February 26th, 2011. Her Majesty Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha attended this celebration with her Royal entourage to speak on the Anak Hajah Saleha attended this celebration with her Royal entourage to speak on the matter of how important women are and how they help the community. Dr Hjh Masnon matter of how important women are and how they help the community. Dr Hjh Masnon who is the Raes of the Seri Begawan Religious Teachers University College greeted the who is the Raes of the Seri Begawan Religious Teachers University College greeted the entourage and spoke about how women have improved the community by being given entourage and spoke about how women have improved the community by being given higher education and higher positions in government. By being able to have better higher education and higher positions in government. By being able to have better education and higher positions in government women can work to their full extent to serve education and higher positions in government women can work to their full extent to serve their country and family. The highlight of the night was when Her majesty gave the Bakti their country and family. The highlight of the night was when Her majesty gave the Bakti Hijrah Women Special Award to three women named Datin Paduka Hjh Misli Hj Awang, Hjh Hijrah Women Special Award to three women named Datin Paduka Hjh Misli Hj Awang, Hjh Johana Hj Mohd Isa and Hjh Tiafnah Hj Metussin. The award is given in appreciation for the Johana Hj Mohd Isa and Hjh Tiafnah Hj Metussin. The award is given in appreciation for the three women's active involvement and contribution to society, especially in religious ways. three women's active involvement and contribution to society, especially in religious ways. The ceremony ended with a dikir marhaban performed by the members of the Women's The ceremony ended with a dikir marhaban performed by the members of the Women's Council, the officers and staff of the Ministry of Religious Affairs and members of Council, the officers and staff of the Ministry of Religious Affairs and members of the Ministry of Health. Partway into the dance Her majesty and her Royal entourage joined the Ministry of Health. Partway into the dance Her majesty and her Royal entourage joined in the dikir recital. After the recital Her majesty and her Royal entourage toured in the dikir recital. After the recital Her majesty and her Royal entourage toured the exhibition booths of the Women Council Brunei Darussalam, Islamic Da'wah Centre the exhibition booths of the Women Council Brunei Darussalam, Islamic Da'wah Centre from Ministry of Religious Affairs and the Ministry of Health. The Ministry of Health is used from Ministry of Religious Affairs and the Ministry of Health. The Ministry of Health is used to inform people of diseases effecting women. There were some 5,000 government officials to inform people of diseases effecting women. There were some 5,000 government officials in attendance. In conclusion, I believe this is a awesome way to promote women's rights in attendance. In conclusion, I believe this is a awesome way to promote women's rights and inform the people of the strength of women in the community. Also, I think this is a and inform the people of the strength of women in the community. Also, I think this is a good way to show that even government officials and royalty still like to have a good time.good way to show that even government officials and royalty still like to have a good time.

Political Political

Type of Government: Constitutional SultanateType of Government: Constitutional Sultanate

President, Prime Minister, Minister of Defense and Minister of Finance: President, Prime Minister, Minister of Defense and Minister of Finance: Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah. He is assisted by the Privy Council, the Council Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah. He is assisted by the Privy Council, the Council of Succession, the Religious Council, the Council of Ministers and the of Succession, the Religious Council, the Council of Ministers and the Legislative Council.Legislative Council.

Senior Minister: Prince Haji Al-muhtadee Billah IbniSenior Minister: Prince Haji Al-muhtadee Billah Ibni

Minister of Finance II: Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Minister of Finance II: Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdul Rahman bin Haji IbrahimSeri Setia Awang Haji Abdul Rahman bin Haji Ibrahim

Minister of Energy: Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Singamanteri Colonel Minister of Energy: Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Singamanteri Colonel Dato Seri Paduka Haji Mohammad Yasmin bin Haji UmarDato Seri Paduka Haji Mohammad Yasmin bin Haji Umar

Deputy Ministers: Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Wahab and Dato Paduka Haji Deputy Ministers: Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Wahab and Dato Paduka Haji AliAli

Suffrage: Universal, you must be 18 years of age for village electionsSuffrage: Universal, you must be 18 years of age for village elections

Economy Economy

Industries: Petroleum, petroleum refining, liquefied natural Industries: Petroleum, petroleum refining, liquefied natural gas and construction.gas and construction.

Exports: Crude oil, liquefied natural gas and petroleum Exports: Crude oil, liquefied natural gas and petroleum products.products.

Imports: Machinery and transport equipment, manufactured Imports: Machinery and transport equipment, manufactured goods, food and chemicals.goods, food and chemicals.

Brunei has a small well-to-do economy that has a mixture of Brunei has a small well-to-do economy that has a mixture of foreign and domestic entrepreneurship, government foreign and domestic entrepreneurship, government regulation, welfare measures, and village tradition. It’s regulation, welfare measures, and village tradition. It’s account balance is $7.024 billion as of 2008 and its external account balance is $7.024 billion as of 2008 and its external debt is $.0debt is $.0

Major Trade Partners: for exports: Japan 38.04%, Indonesia Major Trade Partners: for exports: Japan 38.04%, Indonesia 25.95%, South Korea 14.17% and Australia 7.24% as of 2009. 25.95%, South Korea 14.17% and Australia 7.24% as of 2009. For imports Singapore 38.4%, Malaysia 18.7%, Japan 7.2%, For imports Singapore 38.4%, Malaysia 18.7%, Japan 7.2%, China 5.42%, Thailand 5.19%, US 4.45%, UK 4.25% as of 2009China 5.42%, Thailand 5.19%, US 4.45%, UK 4.25% as of 2009

Daily LifeDaily Life

Brunei has a very high standard of living because of its Brunei has a very high standard of living because of its small population, large gas and oil reserves and because small population, large gas and oil reserves and because Bruneians don’t have to pay taxes. The life expectancy for Bruneians don’t have to pay taxes. The life expectancy for men is 76 years and 81 years for women.men is 76 years and 81 years for women.

Literacy: Total Population: 93%. Male: 95%, Female: 90% Literacy: Total Population: 93%. Male: 95%, Female: 90% as of 2001.as of 2001.

Clothing: Muslim Bruneians follow traditional dressing. Clothing: Muslim Bruneians follow traditional dressing. Women are dressed in bright colors and their clothes Women are dressed in bright colors and their clothes usually cover them from head to toe. Men also prefer usually cover them from head to toe. Men also prefer formal dressing both in workplace and in social gathering. formal dressing both in workplace and in social gathering. Bruneians are not allowed to wear high-end western Bruneians are not allowed to wear high-end western clothes, tourists also must abide by this rule. Non-Muslim clothes, tourists also must abide by this rule. Non-Muslim Bruneians wear shorts, jeans, skirts and other western Bruneians wear shorts, jeans, skirts and other western clothes.clothes.

Internet Usage: Access is unrestricted to citizens and Internet Usage: Access is unrestricted to citizens and there are about 319,000 users as of June 2010 there are about 319,000 users as of June 2010

CultureCulture

Traditions: Traditions follow Islamic law, people of other faiths Traditions: Traditions follow Islamic law, people of other faiths are allowed to follow their own traditions. During the Islamic are allowed to follow their own traditions. During the Islamic month of Ramadhan, Muslims fast from dawn to dusks. Also, month of Ramadhan, Muslims fast from dawn to dusks. Also, during Ramadhan food habits of the Bruneians change, they during Ramadhan food habits of the Bruneians change, they follow some traditional way of cooking certain foods like rice, follow some traditional way of cooking certain foods like rice, mutton, fish and sweets.mutton, fish and sweets.

Language: Malay is the official language, other languages are Language: Malay is the official language, other languages are English and ChineseEnglish and Chinese

Customs: Bruneian people prefer to eat with there fingers rather Customs: Bruneian people prefer to eat with there fingers rather than silverware. Beverages are accepted with the right hand and than silverware. Beverages are accepted with the right hand and when refusing something it is polite to touch the plate with your when refusing something it is polite to touch the plate with your right hand. Usually, at social gatherings people sit on the floor right hand. Usually, at social gatherings people sit on the floor with legs tucked to one side. with legs tucked to one side.

Religions: Muslim (official) 67%, Buddhist 13%, Christian 10%, Religions: Muslim (official) 67%, Buddhist 13%, Christian 10%, other (includes indigenous beliefs) 10%other (includes indigenous beliefs) 10%

CultureCulture

Foods: Rice, mutton, fish and sweets are the main Bruneian Foods: Rice, mutton, fish and sweets are the main Bruneian foods.foods.

Music: Adai-adai is a song sung by fishermen while they Music: Adai-adai is a song sung by fishermen while they work. Another song called the Alus Jua Dindangcis sung by work. Another song called the Alus Jua Dindangcis sung by the groom to try to flatter his wife and profess his undying the groom to try to flatter his wife and profess his undying love for her. Brunei’s national anthem is the "Allah love for her. Brunei’s national anthem is the "Allah Peliharakan Sultan" which translates to “God Bless His Peliharakan Sultan" which translates to “God Bless His Majesty” Majesty”

Dance: Jipin dance is performed by 6 men and 6 women and Dance: Jipin dance is performed by 6 men and 6 women and backed by traditional instruments like the dombak, rebana backed by traditional instruments like the dombak, rebana and gambus dan biola. The aduk-aduk is a ceremonial dance and gambus dan biola. The aduk-aduk is a ceremonial dance performed at special occasions such as the end of the performed at special occasions such as the end of the harvest season. In this dance, the dancers wear a traditional harvest season. In this dance, the dancers wear a traditional warrior’s outfit of red and black clothing and move to the warrior’s outfit of red and black clothing and move to the beat of the traditional Malay martial art known as silat. beat of the traditional Malay martial art known as silat. Numerous percussion instruments such as drums and Numerous percussion instruments such as drums and coconut shells accompany this dance. coconut shells accompany this dance.

FestivitiesFestivities

National Day: Brunei celebrates this joyous occasion on the 23rd National Day: Brunei celebrates this joyous occasion on the 23rd of February and the people usually prepare themselves two of February and the people usually prepare themselves two months beforehand. Schoolchildren, private sector months beforehand. Schoolchildren, private sector representatives and civil servants work hand-in-hand rehearsing representatives and civil servants work hand-in-hand rehearsing their part in flash card displays and other colorful crowd their part in flash card displays and other colorful crowd formations. In addition mass prayers and reading of Surah formations. In addition mass prayers and reading of Surah Yaasin are held at mosques throughout the country.Yaasin are held at mosques throughout the country.

Teachers’ Day: Teachers' Day is celebrated on every 23rd Teachers’ Day: Teachers' Day is celebrated on every 23rd September in recognition of the good deeds of the teachers to September in recognition of the good deeds of the teachers to the community, religion and the country. It is celebrated in the community, religion and the country. It is celebrated in commemoration of the birthday of the late Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali commemoration of the birthday of the late Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Saadul Khairi Waddien, the 28th Sultan of Brunei for Saifuddien Saadul Khairi Waddien, the 28th Sultan of Brunei for his contribution in the field of education including religious his contribution in the field of education including religious education.education.

Royal Brunei Armed Forces Day: 31st of May marks the Royal Brunei Armed Forces Day: 31st of May marks the commemoration of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces formation commemoration of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces formation day. The occasion is celebrated with military parades, artillery day. The occasion is celebrated with military parades, artillery displays, parachuting and exhibitions.displays, parachuting and exhibitions.

ConclusionConclusion

The Brunei Music Society has been preserving classical music in Brunei The Brunei Music Society has been preserving classical music in Brunei since 1972.since 1972.

The private press is either owned or controlled by the royal family, or The private press is either owned or controlled by the royal family, or exercises self-censorship on political and religious matters. exercises self-censorship on political and religious matters.

In Brunei drug trafficking and illegally importing controlled substances are In Brunei drug trafficking and illegally importing controlled substances are serious offenses in Brunei and carry a mandatory death penaltyserious offenses in Brunei and carry a mandatory death penalty

The same family has ruled Brunei for over 600 years.The same family has ruled Brunei for over 600 years.

In 1963, Brunei was the only Malay state to choose to remain a British In 1963, Brunei was the only Malay state to choose to remain a British dependency rather than join the Malaysian Federation.dependency rather than join the Malaysian Federation.

The ruling royals have an immense amount of money.The ruling royals have an immense amount of money.

Much of the country is undeveloped and unexploited outside of the capital.Much of the country is undeveloped and unexploited outside of the capital.

Brunei is currently trying to diversify its economy which it relies heavily on Brunei is currently trying to diversify its economy which it relies heavily on imports.imports.

What I learned What I learned

I learned that even though Brunei people I learned that even though Brunei people enjoy a lavish lifestyle and do not have to pay enjoy a lavish lifestyle and do not have to pay taxes they are restricted from freedom of taxes they are restricted from freedom of speech in the press, radio and internet. I speech in the press, radio and internet. I would rather have my voice heard rather than would rather have my voice heard rather than money, I am grateful to be able to express money, I am grateful to be able to express my feelings in school and public.my feelings in school and public.

Works CitedWorks Cited

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/country_profiles/1298607.stm

https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/bx.html

http://www.mapsofworld.com/country-profile/brunei.html

http://topics.nytimes.com/top/news/http://topics.nytimes.com/top/news/international/countriesandterritories/brunei/international/countriesandterritories/brunei/index.html?scp=1-spot&sq=Brunei&st=cseindex.html?scp=1-spot&sq=Brunei&st=cse







BurundiBurundi

Country DescriptionCountry Description

Official Name: Republic of BurundiOfficial Name: Republic of Burundi

Capital: BujumburaCapital: Bujumbura


Climate: equatorial;, high plateau with considerable altitude Climate: equatorial;, high plateau with considerable altitude variation (772 meters to 2,670 meters above sea level); average variation (772 meters to 2,670 meters above sea level); average annual temperature varies with altitude from 23 to 17 degrees annual temperature varies with altitude from 23 to 17 degrees centigrade but is generally moderate as the average altitude is centigrade but is generally moderate as the average altitude is about 1,700 meters; average annual rainfall is about 150 cm; about 1,700 meters; average annual rainfall is about 150 cm; two wet seasons (February to May and September to two wet seasons (February to May and September to November), and two dry seasons (June to August and December November), and two dry seasons (June to August and December to January)to January)

Location: Central Africa, east of Democratic Republic of the Location: Central Africa, east of Democratic Republic of the Congo.Congo.

Population: 8.5 million as of 2010Population: 8.5 million as of 2010

Flag Flag DescriptionDescription•Green symbolizes hope Green symbolizes hope

and optimism. and optimism. •White symbolizes purity White symbolizes purity

and peace. and peace. •Red symbolizes the blood Red symbolizes the blood

shed in the struggle for shed in the struggle for independence. independence.

•The three stars in the disk The three stars in the disk represent the three major represent the three major ethnic groups, which are ethnic groups, which are

Hutu, Twa, and Tutsi. It also Hutu, Twa, and Tutsi. It also represents the three represents the three

elements in the national elements in the national motto which are unity, motto which are unity,

work and progress.work and progress.


Terrain: Hilly and mountainous, dropping to a plateau in Terrain: Hilly and mountainous, dropping to a plateau in east with some plains.east with some plains.

Natural Resources: Nickel, uranium, rare earth oxides, Natural Resources: Nickel, uranium, rare earth oxides, peat, cobalt, copper, platinum, vanadium, arable land, peat, cobalt, copper, platinum, vanadium, arable land, hydropower, niobium, tantalum, gold, tin, tungsten, hydropower, niobium, tantalum, gold, tin, tungsten, kaolin and limestone.kaolin and limestone.

Fauna: Elephants, lions, crocodiles, hippopotamuses, wild Fauna: Elephants, lions, crocodiles, hippopotamuses, wild boars, flying lemur, antelope.boars, flying lemur, antelope.

Flora: Eucalyptus, figs, acacias and oil palms.Flora: Eucalyptus, figs, acacias and oil palms.

Natural Hazards: Flooding, landslides, and droughts.Natural Hazards: Flooding, landslides, and droughts.

Burundi is landlocked. The Kagera, which drains into Lake Burundi is landlocked. The Kagera, which drains into Lake Victoria, is the most remote headstream of the White Victoria, is the most remote headstream of the White Nile.Nile.


Points of Interest: Burundi’s capital, Points of Interest: Burundi’s capital, Bujumbura.Bujumbura.

The former capital Gitega has a traditional The former capital Gitega has a traditional craft center and a museum.craft center and a museum.

In the Southeast the land of Mosso has an In the Southeast the land of Mosso has an abundant wildlife.abundant wildlife.


VacationVacation

Lake Tanganyika, which is Lake Tanganyika, which is known for its beauty. known for its beauty.

Second largest freshwater Second largest freshwater lake in the world.lake in the world.

Second deepest Second deepest freshwater lake in the freshwater lake in the world.world.

The lake was the scene of The lake was the scene of two famous battles during two famous battles during World War I.World War I.

Lake TanganyikaLake Tanganyika

HistoryHistory

In the 1300s Hutu people settled in Burundi.In the 1300s Hutu people settled in Burundi.

In the 1400s Tutsi settlers established themselves as feudal rulers in In the 1400s Tutsi settlers established themselves as feudal rulers in Burundi.Burundi.

In 1858, British explorers Richard Burton and John Speke visit Burundi.In 1858, British explorers Richard Burton and John Speke visit Burundi.

In 1959, there is an influx of Tutsi refugees from Rwanda following In 1959, there is an influx of Tutsi refugees from Rwanda following ethnic violence in Burundi.ethnic violence in Burundi.

In 1962, Urundi is separated from Ruanda-Urundi and becomes Burundi In 1962, Urundi is separated from Ruanda-Urundi and becomes Burundi and is given independence as a monarchy under King Mwambutsa IV.and is given independence as a monarchy under King Mwambutsa IV.

In 1965, King Mwambutsa refuses to appoint a Hutu prime minister In 1965, King Mwambutsa refuses to appoint a Hutu prime minister even though Hutus win a majority in parliamentary elections. There is even though Hutus win a majority in parliamentary elections. There is an attempted coup by Hutu police led by Michel Micombero but is an attempted coup by Hutu police led by Michel Micombero but is brutally suppressed.brutally suppressed.

HistoryHistory

In 1966, Micombero stages a second coup. It is successful In 1966, Micombero stages a second coup. It is successful and he declares himself president.and he declares himself president.

In 1976, Micombero is deposed in a military coup and is In 1976, Micombero is deposed in a military coup and is replaced by Jean-Baptiste Bagaza as president.replaced by Jean-Baptiste Bagaza as president.

In 1981, a new constitution makes Burundi a one party In 1981, a new constitution makes Burundi a one party state.state.

In April of 1994, Plane carrying Ntaryamira and his In April of 1994, Plane carrying Ntaryamira and his Rwandan counterpart is shot down over the Rwandan Rwandan counterpart is shot down over the Rwandan capital Kigali, killing both and triggering genocide in capital Kigali, killing both and triggering genocide in Rwanda in which 800,000 are killed.Rwanda in which 800,000 are killed.

In April of 2009, Burundi's last rebel group, the Forces for In April of 2009, Burundi's last rebel group, the Forces for National Liberation, lays down arms and officially National Liberation, lays down arms and officially transforms into a political party in a ceremony supervised transforms into a political party in a ceremony supervised by the African Union.by the African Union.

Civil WarCivil War

After only 100 days in office Burundi's first democratically After only 100 days in office Burundi's first democratically elected president was assassinated in October of 1993.elected president was assassinated in October of 1993.

This sparked ethnic violence between Hutu and Tutsi This sparked ethnic violence between Hutu and Tutsi factions.factions.

200,000 plus Burundians were killed during the conflict 200,000 plus Burundians were killed during the conflict that spanned almost a dozen years.that spanned almost a dozen years.

Hundreds of thousands of Burundians were labeled missing Hundreds of thousands of Burundians were labeled missing or became refugees in neighboring countries.or became refugees in neighboring countries.

In 2003, the Tutsi-dominated government and the Hutu In 2003, the Tutsi-dominated government and the Hutu rebels came to a power agreement.rebels came to a power agreement.

In 2006, the new President Pierre Nkurunziz signed a In 2006, the new President Pierre Nkurunziz signed a ceasefire treaty with the last rebel group, but the country ceasefire treaty with the last rebel group, but the country still faces many challenges. still faces many challenges.

HistoryHistory

Ever since Burundi's civil war which started in 1993 and ended in Ever since Burundi's civil war which started in 1993 and ended in 2005 the country has been trying to improve its living conditions 2005 the country has been trying to improve its living conditions for its people. People have been trying to fix the economy of for its people. People have been trying to fix the economy of Burundi ever since the war but aid workers say that the country Burundi ever since the war but aid workers say that the country needs to do more than fix the economy to bring it back to its needs to do more than fix the economy to bring it back to its former self. The terrible war took away the population's rights to former self. The terrible war took away the population's rights to basic services such as health, education and sanitation. The acting basic services such as health, education and sanitation. The acting humanitarian coordinator for Burundi Jean-Charles Dei is quoted humanitarian coordinator for Burundi Jean-Charles Dei is quoted saying "We cannot take short cuts when it comes to development; saying "We cannot take short cuts when it comes to development; we need to absolutely address the basic needs of the population we need to absolutely address the basic needs of the population before we go beyond that". The health of Burundi is so bad that before we go beyond that". The health of Burundi is so bad that previously eradicated diseases are coming back and making many previously eradicated diseases are coming back and making many people sick. More than 60% of Burundi's population is food-people sick. More than 60% of Burundi's population is food-insecure and the chronic malnutrition rate is over 50%. The worst insecure and the chronic malnutrition rate is over 50%. The worst food shortages in Burundi are in Bugesera, Kirundo, Muyinga, food shortages in Burundi are in Bugesera, Kirundo, Muyinga, Moso, Ruyigi, Rutana, Cankuzo and Makamba. The harvest for Moso, Ruyigi, Rutana, Cankuzo and Makamba. The harvest for 2011 will not decrease shortages because of La Niña floods, sadly 2011 will not decrease shortages because of La Niña floods, sadly 90% of the population relies on agriculture. In conclusion, I believe 90% of the population relies on agriculture. In conclusion, I believe that Jean-Charles Dei is correct in that Burundi needs to focus on that Jean-Charles Dei is correct in that Burundi needs to focus on its food supply and health issues and nothing beyond that until the its food supply and health issues and nothing beyond that until the problem is solved. problem is solved.

PoliticalPolitical

Type of Government: RepublicType of Government: Republic

Government Leaders: President: Pierre Government Leaders: President: Pierre NkurunzizaNkurunziza

Suffrage: Universal, must be 18 years oldSuffrage: Universal, must be 18 years old

The government and the last active rebel The government and the last active rebel group signed a ceasefire in May 2008, but group signed a ceasefire in May 2008, but post-election tension in 2010 renewed fears post-election tension in 2010 renewed fears of civil war.of civil war.

EconomyEconomy

Industries: Light consumer goods such as blankets, Industries: Light consumer goods such as blankets, shoes, soap. Assembly of imported components, public shoes, soap. Assembly of imported components, public works construction and food processing.works construction and food processing.

Exports: Coffee, tea, sugar, cotton and hides.Exports: Coffee, tea, sugar, cotton and hides.

Imports: Capital goods, petroleum products and Imports: Capital goods, petroleum products and foodstuffs.foodstuffs.

Economic Status: Half the population lives below the Economic Status: Half the population lives below the poverty line. Burundi’s national debt is $1.2 billion.poverty line. Burundi’s national debt is $1.2 billion.

Major Trade Partners: Exports: Germany 21.6%, Major Trade Partners: Exports: Germany 21.6%, Switzerland 14.86%, Belgium 9.32%, Sweden 8.94% and Switzerland 14.86%, Belgium 9.32%, Sweden 8.94% and Pakistan 5.82% as of 2009. Imports: Saudi Arabia Pakistan 5.82% as of 2009. Imports: Saudi Arabia 16.87%, Belgium 11.17%, Uganda 8.62%, Kenya 7.57%, 16.87%, Belgium 11.17%, Uganda 8.62%, Kenya 7.57%, China 5.66%, France 5.35%, Germany 4.46%, India China 5.66%, France 5.35%, Germany 4.46%, India 4.24% and Tanzania 4.21% as of 2009.4.24% and Tanzania 4.21% as of 2009.


The standard of living is very low because there are The standard of living is very low because there are rebellions throughout Burundi and Burundi went rebellions throughout Burundi and Burundi went through a 12 year civil war.through a 12 year civil war.

Literacy: Total Population: 59.3%. Men: 67.3%, Literacy: Total Population: 59.3%. Men: 67.3%, Women: 52.2% as of 2000.Women: 52.2% as of 2000.

Clothing: In the remote areas of Burundi men and Clothing: In the remote areas of Burundi men and women wear pagnes which are wraparounds. Men are women wear pagnes which are wraparounds. Men are seen wearing a cord round their waist while Burundian seen wearing a cord round their waist while Burundian herders wear special kinds of pagnes. In the capital herders wear special kinds of pagnes. In the capital city of Burundians wear fashionable clothing. Men in city of Burundians wear fashionable clothing. Men in this area prefer to wear suits with ties while women this area prefer to wear suits with ties while women dress up in western dresses. The Burundian youths like dress up in western dresses. The Burundian youths like to wear t-shirts and jeans.to wear t-shirts and jeans.

Internet Usage: 157,800 users as of 2009.Internet Usage: 157,800 users as of 2009.

CultureCulture

Traditions: Sorghum beer and banana beer which is Traditions: Sorghum beer and banana beer which is called urwarwa are the traditional drinks of Burundi. called urwarwa are the traditional drinks of Burundi. Traditional snack foods are roundnut, sugarcane and Traditional snack foods are roundnut, sugarcane and fruits. Drinking coffee and tea is traditional in Burundi.fruits. Drinking coffee and tea is traditional in Burundi.

Customs: Serving dessert after a meal is not a custom in Customs: Serving dessert after a meal is not a custom in Burundi. Burundi foods are generally prepared over a Burundi. Burundi foods are generally prepared over a wood fire. Eating red kidney beans are eaten once a day wood fire. Eating red kidney beans are eaten once a day in Burundi.in Burundi.

Languages: Kirundi and French are the official Languages: Kirundi and French are the official languages, while Swahili is spoken along Lake languages, while Swahili is spoken along Lake Tanganyika and in the Bujumbura area.Tanganyika and in the Bujumbura area.

Religions: Christian 67% (Roman Catholic 62%, Religions: Christian 67% (Roman Catholic 62%, Protestant 5%), indigenous beliefs 23%, Muslim 10%Protestant 5%), indigenous beliefs 23%, Muslim 10%

CultureCulture

Foods: Plantains, beans, sweet potatoes, cabbage Foods: Plantains, beans, sweet potatoes, cabbage and tubers. Most Burundians enjoy eating ugali. and tubers. Most Burundians enjoy eating ugali. Ugali is prepared by boiling cassava flour in water Ugali is prepared by boiling cassava flour in water and making a paste of it.and making a paste of it.

Music and Dance: The Amani drummers are very Music and Dance: The Amani drummers are very famous in Burundi and are the conventional famous in Burundi and are the conventional cultural drummer of Burundi. The dancer cultural drummer of Burundi. The dancer drummers of Kabanga are famous for their dance drummers of Kabanga are famous for their dance which is performed in various Burundi festivals. which is performed in various Burundi festivals. Also, The traditional dancers of "Batimbo” are Also, The traditional dancers of "Batimbo” are very famous all over the world for their very famous all over the world for their performance with tambourines. The Burundi performance with tambourines. The Burundi National anthem is "Burundi Bwacu” which National anthem is "Burundi Bwacu” which translates to “Our Beloved Burundi”.translates to “Our Beloved Burundi”.


The Sauti Za busara is The Sauti Za busara is one of the most important one of the most important festivals of Burundi.festivals of Burundi.

In early decades, the In early decades, the drummers used to drummers used to perform to celebrate the perform to celebrate the victories of the Mwami or victories of the Mwami or the kingsthe kings

After the independence of After the independence of Burundi, the drum tunes Burundi, the drum tunes became the symbol of became the symbol of unity and were played in unity and were played in any cultural dance any cultural dance programs.programs.


Christmas, New Year's Day, Akaranga are the festivals of Christmas, New Year's Day, Akaranga are the festivals of joy and happiness of the Burundians.joy and happiness of the Burundians.

Burundi's media are subject to self-censorship and Burundi's media are subject to self-censorship and occasional government censorship.occasional government censorship.

The most important Burundi festival is Christmas.The most important Burundi festival is Christmas.

Burundi gained its independence in 1961, but has been Burundi gained its independence in 1961, but has been plagued by tension between the dominant Tutsi minority plagued by tension between the dominant Tutsi minority and the Hutu majority.and the Hutu majority.

The dance and music festivals form a major part of the The dance and music festivals form a major part of the Burundi festivals. Burundi festivals.

The style conscious men and women of Bujumbura are The style conscious men and women of Bujumbura are known as the "sapeurs”. known as the "sapeurs”.

What I learnedWhat I learned

I learned that Burundi is a war tore country I learned that Burundi is a war tore country that has a new leader or president every that has a new leader or president every other year. There are many rebel groups other year. There are many rebel groups throughout Burundi that think that their throughout Burundi that think that their leader should be the leader of Burundi. This leader should be the leader of Burundi. This gets in the way of developing Burundi’s gets in the way of developing Burundi’s economy, government and education. economy, government and education. Progress cannot be made in any of these Progress cannot be made in any of these fields until the country meets a common fields until the country meets a common group with its internal opposing forces. group with its internal opposing forces.


http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/country_profiles/1068873.stm

https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/by.html

http://topics.nytimes.com/top/news/international/countriesandterritories/burundi/index.html?scp=1-spot&sq=burundi&st=cse

http://www.mapsofworld.com/burundi/http://www.mapsofworld.com/burundi/burundi-political-map.htmlburundi-political-map.html








Federated States of Federated States of MicronesiaMicronesia


Official Name: Federated States of MicronesiaOfficial Name: Federated States of Micronesia

Capital: PalikirCapital: Palikir

Size: 271 sq milesSize: 271 sq miles

Climate: tropical; heavy year-round rainfall, Climate: tropical; heavy year-round rainfall, especially in the eastern islands; located on especially in the eastern islands; located on southern edge of the typhoon belt with southern edge of the typhoon belt with occasionally severe damage.occasionally severe damage.

Location: Oceania, island group in the North Location: Oceania, island group in the North Pacific Ocean, about three-quarters of the way Pacific Ocean, about three-quarters of the way from Hawaii to Indonesia.from Hawaii to Indonesia.

Population: 107,008 as of 2000.Population: 107,008 as of 2000.


•The flag is light blue with The flag is light blue with four white five-pointed four white five-pointed

stars centered.stars centered.•The four white stars are The four white stars are arranged in a diamond arranged in a diamond

patternpattern•The blue symbolizes the The blue symbolizes the Pacific Ocean while the Pacific Ocean while the stars represent the four stars represent the four island groups of Chuuk, island groups of Chuuk,

Kosrae, Pohnpei, and YapKosrae, Pohnpei, and Yap


Terrain: Islands vary geologically from high mountainous Terrain: Islands vary geologically from high mountainous islands to low, coral atolls. Volcanic outcroppings on islands to low, coral atolls. Volcanic outcroppings on Pohnpei, Kosrae, and ChuukPohnpei, Kosrae, and Chuuk

Natural Resources: Timber, marine products, deep-seabed Natural Resources: Timber, marine products, deep-seabed minerals and phosphate.minerals and phosphate.

Fauna: Rare deer, monitor lizard, fruit bat, marlin, mahi-Fauna: Rare deer, monitor lizard, fruit bat, marlin, mahi-mahi, tuna, barracuda, sailfish and assorted bottom fish.mahi, tuna, barracuda, sailfish and assorted bottom fish.

Flora: Hibiscus, Hong Kong orchid, ironwood, eucalyptus, Flora: Hibiscus, Hong Kong orchid, ironwood, eucalyptus, Honduras mahogany, papaya, banana, coconut and Honduras mahogany, papaya, banana, coconut and plumeria treesplumeria trees

Natural Hazards: Typhoons from June to DecemberNatural Hazards: Typhoons from June to December

There are four major island groups totaling at 607 islands, There are four major island groups totaling at 607 islands, but out of the 607 only 65 are inhabited.but out of the 607 only 65 are inhabited.


Special Points of Special Points of InterestInterest

Sokehs Mountain: Here Sokehs Mountain: Here you can take a hike and you can take a hike and climb up the mountain climb up the mountain to see the beautiful to see the beautiful Sokehs rock and Kolonia Sokehs rock and Kolonia harbour.harbour.

Truk Lagoon: Here you Truk Lagoon: Here you can dive down and can dive down and explore the wreckage of explore the wreckage of Japanese ships and Japanese ships and tanks after World War II.tanks after World War II.

Truk LagoonTruk Lagoon


VacationVacation

Lelu Ruins: One of the Lelu Ruins: One of the Sights of Kosrae Sights of Kosrae

Considered one of the Considered one of the wonders of the Pacificwonders of the Pacific

Once an ancient ruling Once an ancient ruling empire complex of the empire complex of the entire Micronesian regionentire Micronesian region

This historical site dates This historical site dates back to the 13th centuryback to the 13th century

Kosrae's Sleeping Kosrae's Sleeping LadyLady

HistoryHistory

In 1525, Portuguese navigators in search of the Spice In 1525, Portuguese navigators in search of the Spice Islands came upon Yap and Ulithi.Islands came upon Yap and Ulithi.

Spain claimed sovereignty over the Caroline Islands until Spain claimed sovereignty over the Caroline Islands until 18991899

In 1914 German administration ended when the Japanese In 1914 German administration ended when the Japanese navy took military possession of the Marshall, Caroline and navy took military possession of the Marshall, Caroline and Northern Mariana Islands.Northern Mariana Islands.

On July 12, 1978, after the constitutional convention, the On July 12, 1978, after the constitutional convention, the people of four of the former Districts of the Trust Territory, people of four of the former Districts of the Trust Territory, Truk (now Chuuk), Yap, Ponape (now Pohnpei) and Kusaie Truk (now Chuuk), Yap, Ponape (now Pohnpei) and Kusaie (now Kosrae) voted in a referendum to form a Federation (now Kosrae) voted in a referendum to form a Federation under the Constitution of the Federated States of Micronesiaunder the Constitution of the Federated States of Micronesia

On September 17, 1991, the Federated States of Micronesia On September 17, 1991, the Federated States of Micronesia became a member of the United Nations.became a member of the United Nations.

HistoryHistory

Current Event: On March 24Current Event: On March 24thth, 2011 the President of the Federated States , 2011 the President of the Federated States of Micronesia President Mori met with he new Australian Ambassador of Micronesia President Mori met with he new Australian Ambassador Martin Quinn in Deketik, Pohnpei at the FSM Maritime Wing facilities. Martin Quinn in Deketik, Pohnpei at the FSM Maritime Wing facilities. They celebrated the 21st anniversary of the arrival of the first Pacific They celebrated the 21st anniversary of the arrival of the first Pacific Patrol Boat in FSM. The Palikir was decorated for the event while Patrol Boat in FSM. The Palikir was decorated for the event while the Federated States of Micronesia National police from the Maritime the Federated States of Micronesia National police from the Maritime wing and the crew of the FSS Palikir paraded to the sound of bagpipes wing and the crew of the FSS Palikir paraded to the sound of bagpipes and drums in front of the crowd. In President Mori's speech he thanked and drums in front of the crowd. In President Mori's speech he thanked the Federated States of Micronesia Government and the people for the Federated States of Micronesia Government and the people for Australia's contribution of the three patrol boats that Federated States of Australia's contribution of the three patrol boats that Federated States of Micronesia utilizes for surveillance, search and rescue, medical Micronesia utilizes for surveillance, search and rescue, medical evacuation, and research missions, he also thanked the Federated States evacuation, and research missions, he also thanked the Federated States of Micronesia Congress for funding it. In Ambassador Quinn's speech he of Micronesia Congress for funding it. In Ambassador Quinn's speech he stated that this was a symbol of their good relations and stated that this was a symbol of their good relations and friendship. Also, Former President John Haglelgam was able to make an friendship. Also, Former President John Haglelgam was able to make an appearance to tell the people that even though they were given the appearance to tell the people that even though they were given the boats 21 years ago, they still look brand new. After the speeches a buffet boats 21 years ago, they still look brand new. After the speeches a buffet and cake was served to all who attended. In conclusion, I believe that this and cake was served to all who attended. In conclusion, I believe that this is a good way to show other countries that people can greatly benefit is a good way to show other countries that people can greatly benefit from a healthy friendship. Also, I think it was very professional and kind from a healthy friendship. Also, I think it was very professional and kind that the President of the Federated States of Micronesia President Mori that the President of the Federated States of Micronesia President Mori still thanks the new Australian Ambassador Martin Quinn 21 years after still thanks the new Australian Ambassador Martin Quinn 21 years after the boats were given to them. the boats were given to them.

PoliticalPolitical

Type of Government: Constitutional government Type of Government: Constitutional government in free association with the Unites States. The in free association with the Unites States. The Compact of Free Association entered into force Compact of Free Association entered into force on November 3on November 3rd,rd, 1986 and the Amended 1986 and the Amended Compact entered into force in May of 2004.Compact entered into force in May of 2004.

Government Leaders: Chief of State/President: Government Leaders: Chief of State/President: President Emanuel Mori. Vice President: Vice President Emanuel Mori. Vice President: Vice President Alik L. Alik. President Alik L. Alik.

Suffrage: Universal and you must be 18 years Suffrage: Universal and you must be 18 years old.old.

EconomyEconomy

Industries: Tourism, construction, fish processing, specialized Industries: Tourism, construction, fish processing, specialized aquaculture and craft items (from shell, wood, and pearls).aquaculture and craft items (from shell, wood, and pearls).

Exports: Fish, garments, bananas, black peppers, sakau Exports: Fish, garments, bananas, black peppers, sakau (kava), and betel nuts.(kava), and betel nuts.

Imports: Food, manufactured goods, machinery and Imports: Food, manufactured goods, machinery and equipment and beverages.equipment and beverages.

Economic Status: The Federated States of Micronesia’ Economic Status: The Federated States of Micronesia’ economy future is very fragile because of the loss of United economy future is very fragile because of the loss of United States assistance, which it relies heavily as of now. Also, it States assistance, which it relies heavily as of now. Also, it relies on Japanese assistance as well. The Federated States relies on Japanese assistance as well. The Federated States of Micronesia’s National Debt is $60.8 million.of Micronesia’s National Debt is $60.8 million.

Major Trade Partners: The United States of America and Major Trade Partners: The United States of America and JapanJapan


Standard of Living: The Federated States of Micronesia’s Standard of Living: The Federated States of Micronesia’s standard of living is not very good because it cannot standard of living is not very good because it cannot support itself economically so it relies heavily on the support itself economically so it relies heavily on the United States help and the people face a large scale of United States help and the people face a large scale of unemployment. unemployment.

Literacy: Total Population: 89%, Male: 91%, Female: Literacy: Total Population: 89%, Male: 91%, Female: 88%. As of 1980.88%. As of 1980.

Clothing: Men usually wear bright loincloths and Women Clothing: Men usually wear bright loincloths and Women wear only woven fibre or grass skirts. In some areas of wear only woven fibre or grass skirts. In some areas of The Federated States of Micronesia visitors must follow The Federated States of Micronesia visitors must follow the rules of not wearing T-shirts, pants, baseball caps the rules of not wearing T-shirts, pants, baseball caps and other Western clothing.and other Western clothing.


CultureCulture

Traditions and Customs: The traditional music Traditions and Customs: The traditional music is carried forward from generation to is carried forward from generation to generation. There are traditional extended generation. There are traditional extended family and clan systems found on each island. family and clan systems found on each island. In Pohnpei pigs, yams, and sakau (a In Pohnpei pigs, yams, and sakau (a beverage, with psychoactive properties, beverage, with psychoactive properties, made from piper methisticum root) are the made from piper methisticum root) are the most prestigious foods featured during feasts. most prestigious foods featured during feasts.

Language: English is the official and common Language: English is the official and common language. Other languages are Chuukese, language. Other languages are Chuukese, Kosrean, Pohnpeian, Yapese, Ulithian, Kosrean, Pohnpeian, Yapese, Ulithian, Woleaian, Nukuoro, Kapingamarangi.Woleaian, Nukuoro, Kapingamarangi.

CultureCulture

Foods: Meat, fish, taro, breadfruit, yams, sweet Foods: Meat, fish, taro, breadfruit, yams, sweet potatoes, cassava, coconut, banana, papaya, potatoes, cassava, coconut, banana, papaya, pandanus, mango, and a variety of citrus.pandanus, mango, and a variety of citrus.

Music and Dance: Music is considered the medium Music and Dance: Music is considered the medium of communication. Some popular types of music of communication. Some popular types of music are reggae, hip-hop and pop. Also, Choral hymns are reggae, hip-hop and pop. Also, Choral hymns are very popular throughout the Federated States are very popular throughout the Federated States of Micronesia. Music varies from reggae, hip-hop of Micronesia. Music varies from reggae, hip-hop and pop to pre-Christian chants. Choral hymns are and pop to pre-Christian chants. Choral hymns are usually performed during secular and church-usually performed during secular and church-related events. The Federated States of related events. The Federated States of Micronesia National anthem is "Patriots of Micronesia National anthem is "Patriots of Micronesia”.Micronesia”.


Beijing University of Science & Technology Beijing University of Science & Technology FestivalFestival

The Festival was held from 25-26 May 2009The Festival was held from 25-26 May 2009

The Federated States of Micronesia embassy The Federated States of Micronesia embassy participated in the opening ceremony of the participated in the opening ceremony of the 2009 Foreign Student's Culture Festival2009 Foreign Student's Culture Festival

The students did a good job representing The The students did a good job representing The Federated States of Micronesia.Federated States of Micronesia.

The Festival was held to promote tourisim in The Festival was held to promote tourisim in The Federated States of MicronesiaThe Federated States of Micronesia


The president of the Federated States of Micronesia is both The president of the Federated States of Micronesia is both the chief of state and head of government.the chief of state and head of government.

The social and symbolic significance of food is one of the The social and symbolic significance of food is one of the most important aspects of life in the Federated States of most important aspects of life in the Federated States of Micronesia.Micronesia.

Sharing food is an expression of solidarity that validates Sharing food is an expression of solidarity that validates kinship ties and defines a host of rights, duties, and kinship ties and defines a host of rights, duties, and obligations between people.obligations between people.

Music and dance is very important to the people of the Music and dance is very important to the people of the Federated States of Micronesia, they use music and dance to Federated States of Micronesia, they use music and dance to express their history and culture.express their history and culture.

Each of the four States of the Federated States of Micronesia Each of the four States of the Federated States of Micronesia exhibits its own distinct culture and tradition, but there are exhibits its own distinct culture and tradition, but there are also common cultural and economic bonds that are centuries also common cultural and economic bonds that are centuries old.old.


I learned that even though the Federated I learned that even though the Federated States of Micronesia has may different islands States of Micronesia has may different islands with many different cultures and customs with many different cultures and customs there is still a common unity between them. I there is still a common unity between them. I think it is cool that they people still respect think it is cool that they people still respect each others culture and learn how to blind each others culture and learn how to blind two different cultures into one that is fair to two different cultures into one that is fair to both. I think other countries could learn a lot both. I think other countries could learn a lot from the Federated States of Micronesia’s from the Federated States of Micronesia’s unity.unity.


https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/fm.html

http://www.fsmgov.org/info/index.html

http://www.fsmgov.org/press/pr032511.htm

http://www.mapsofworld.com/country-http://www.mapsofworld.com/country-profile/micronesia-information-geography-profile/micronesia-information-geography-history.htmlhistory.html



http://www.fsmgov.org/info/index.html

http://www.fsmgov.org/press/pr032511.htm

Guinea-BissauGuinea-Bissau


Official Name: Republic of Guinea-BissauOfficial Name: Republic of Guinea-Bissau

Capital: BissauCapital: Bissau


Climate: Tropical. Generally hot and humid; Climate: Tropical. Generally hot and humid; monsoonal-type rainy season from June to monsoonal-type rainy season from June to November with southwesterly winds. dry season November with southwesterly winds. dry season from December to May with northeasterly from December to May with northeasterly harmattan winds.harmattan winds.

Location: Western Africa, bordering the North Location: Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Guinea and SenegalAtlantic Ocean, between Guinea and Senegal

Population: 1.6 million as of 2010Population: 1.6 million as of 2010

Flag Flag DescriptionDescription•The flag uses the popular The flag uses the popular

Pan-African colors of Pan-African colors of EthiopiaEthiopia

•The flag’s design was The flag’s design was heavily influenced by the heavily influenced by the

Ghanaian flag.Ghanaian flag.•Two equal horizontal bands Two equal horizontal bands of yellow and green with a of yellow and green with a vertical red band on the vertical red band on the

hoist sidehoist side• there is a black five-there is a black five-

pointed star centered in the pointed star centered in the red band.red band.

•Yellow symbolizes the sun.Yellow symbolizes the sun.•Green symbolizes hopeGreen symbolizes hope

•Red symbolizes blood shed Red symbolizes blood shed during the struggle for during the struggle for

independence.independence.•The black star symbolizes The black star symbolizes

African unityAfrican unity


Terrain: Mostly low coastal plain rising to savanna in Terrain: Mostly low coastal plain rising to savanna in east.east.

Natural Resources: Fish, timber, phosphates, bauxite, Natural Resources: Fish, timber, phosphates, bauxite, clay, granite, limestone, unexploited deposits of clay, granite, limestone, unexploited deposits of petroleum.petroleum.

Fauna: Several species of antelope, buffalo, monkeys Fauna: Several species of antelope, buffalo, monkeys and snakesand snakes

Flora: Thick jungle in the interior plains. Rice and Flora: Thick jungle in the interior plains. Rice and mangrove fields along the coastal plains and swamps. mangrove fields along the coastal plains and swamps. Savannas in the north.Savannas in the north.

Natural Hazards: Hot, dry, dusty harmattan haze may Natural Hazards: Hot, dry, dusty harmattan haze may reduce visibility during dry season. Brush firesreduce visibility during dry season. Brush fires


Points of Interest: Lagoa Points of Interest: Lagoa de Cufada: Has many de Cufada: Has many fresh water lakes, fresh water lakes, lagoons and forests. The lagoons and forests. The outer fringes of the park outer fringes of the park grow banana and cashew grow banana and cashew nuts. The small numbers nuts. The small numbers of people who live within of people who live within the site thrive on the site thrive on traditional fishing and traditional fishing and rice production. Also, rice production. Also, crocodiles and crocodiles and hippopotamus are seen hippopotamus are seen living in the park. living in the park.


VacationVacation

One of the Bijagos One of the Bijagos Islands in Guinea-Bissau.Islands in Guinea-Bissau.

Name of the main townName of the main town

Population: 9,244 as of Population: 9,244 as of 20082008

The island is known for The island is known for its wildlife and is heavily its wildlife and is heavily forested.forested.

It is linked by a ferry to It is linked by a ferry to Bissau and has an airtrip.Bissau and has an airtrip.

BubaqueBubaque

HistoryHistory

In the Pre-15In the Pre-15thth century, Guinea-Bissau came under the century, Guinea-Bissau came under the influence of the Mali Empire and became a tributary influence of the Mali Empire and became a tributary kingdom known as Gabu.kingdom known as Gabu.

In 1446 and 1447, the first Portuguese arrive and the In 1446 and 1447, the first Portuguese arrive and the Guinea-Bissau area becomes important in the slave-trade.Guinea-Bissau area becomes important in the slave-trade.

In 1879, Guinea-Bissau became a separate colony.In 1879, Guinea-Bissau became a separate colony.

In 1951, Guinea-Bissau was declared a province of In 1951, Guinea-Bissau was declared a province of Portugal.Portugal.

In 1956, Amilcar Cabral established the African Party for In 1956, Amilcar Cabral established the African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verdethe Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde

Between 1963 and 1974, the African Party for the Between 1963 and 1974, the African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde starts a war of Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde starts a war of independence independence

HistoryHistory

In 1973, Amilcar Cabral is assassinated and Guinea-In 1973, Amilcar Cabral is assassinated and Guinea-Bissau is given its current name.Bissau is given its current name.

In 1974, Portugal granted Guinea-Bissau In 1974, Portugal granted Guinea-Bissau independence with Amilcar Cabral's brother Luis independence with Amilcar Cabral's brother Luis Cabral, as president.Cabral, as president.

In 1980, Joao Bernardo Vieira takes over government.In 1980, Joao Bernardo Vieira takes over government.

In 1994, Vieira was chosen as president in Guinea-In 1994, Vieira was chosen as president in Guinea-Bissau's first free electionBissau's first free election

In July of 2009, Malam Bacai Sanha, won presidential In July of 2009, Malam Bacai Sanha, won presidential election.election.

Civil WarCivil War

Broke out in 1998 after many failed attempts to oust Joao Broke out in 1998 after many failed attempts to oust Joao Bernardo 'Nino' Vieira as president.Bernardo 'Nino' Vieira as president.

Vieira finally stepped down in May of 1999.Vieira finally stepped down in May of 1999.

Kumba Yala was made president in February 2000Kumba Yala was made president in February 2000

In September 2003, Yala was ousted as president in a bloodless In September 2003, Yala was ousted as president in a bloodless coup and businessman Henrique Rosa was sworn in as interim coup and businessman Henrique Rosa was sworn in as interim president.president.

In 2005, Vieira was re-elected president promising to pursue In 2005, Vieira was re-elected president promising to pursue economic development and national reconciliation.economic development and national reconciliation.

In March of 2009 Vieira was assassinated.In March of 2009 Vieira was assassinated.

In June of 2009 Malam Bacai Sanha was elected in an emergency In June of 2009 Malam Bacai Sanha was elected in an emergency election.election.

History History

Current Event: President of Guinea-Bissau Malam Bacai Current Event: President of Guinea-Bissau Malam Bacai Sanha stated that on Wednesday "Guinea-Bissau will Sanha stated that on Wednesday "Guinea-Bissau will further expand cooperation with China while receiving a further expand cooperation with China while receiving a delegation of the Communist Party of China". Malam Bacai delegation of the Communist Party of China". Malam Bacai Sanha said that Guinea-Bissau greatly appreciates the Sanha said that Guinea-Bissau greatly appreciates the continued support from China and that both countries will continued support from China and that both countries will benefit from each other. Guinea-Bissau will adhere to the benefit from each other. Guinea-Bissau will adhere to the one-China policy, which is to continue to expand bilateral one-China policy, which is to continue to expand bilateral cooperation and exchanges. Chinese senior official Wang cooperation and exchanges. Chinese senior official Wang said that both countries have always supported each other said that both countries have always supported each other and that their friendly relationship is deep-rooted and and that their friendly relationship is deep-rooted and fruitful. China is willing to further increase their interactions fruitful. China is willing to further increase their interactions with Guinea-Bissau because of their great relationship. In with Guinea-Bissau because of their great relationship. In conclusion, I think this is a great way to set an example for conclusion, I think this is a great way to set an example for countries on how two different countries can benefit from countries on how two different countries can benefit from one another's cooperation. Their cooperation shows that one another's cooperation. Their cooperation shows that any two countries can work together to equally benefit any two countries can work together to equally benefit each other. each other.

PoliticalPolitical


Government Leaders: President: Malam Bacai Government Leaders: President: Malam Bacai Sanha. Prime Minister: Carlos Gomes JuniorSanha. Prime Minister: Carlos Gomes Junior

Suffrage: Universal, must be 18 years old.Suffrage: Universal, must be 18 years old.

EconomyEconomy

Industries: Agricultural products processing, beer and soft Industries: Agricultural products processing, beer and soft drinks.drinks.

Exports: Fish, shrimp, cashew nuts, peanuts, palm kernels Exports: Fish, shrimp, cashew nuts, peanuts, palm kernels and sawn lumber.and sawn lumber.

Imports: Foodstuffs, machinery and transport equipment Imports: Foodstuffs, machinery and transport equipment and petroleum productsand petroleum products

Economic Status: One of the poorest countries in the Economic Status: One of the poorest countries in the world. Depends mainly on farming and fishing, but world. Depends mainly on farming and fishing, but trafficking narcotics is probably the most rewarding tradetrafficking narcotics is probably the most rewarding trade

Major Trade Partners: Imports: Portugal (17.33%), Senegal Major Trade Partners: Imports: Portugal (17.33%), Senegal (13.66%), Netherlands (9.27%), India (9.11%), Thailand (13.66%), Netherlands (9.27%), India (9.11%), Thailand (5.2%), Brazil (4.49%) as of 2009. Exports: India (62.21%), (5.2%), Brazil (4.49%) as of 2009. Exports: India (62.21%), Nigeria (31.28%), Portugal (1.48%) as of 2009.Nigeria (31.28%), Portugal (1.48%) as of 2009.


Standard of Living: Very low, because of the Standard of Living: Very low, because of the civil war and drug trafficking. civil war and drug trafficking.

Literacy: Total Population: 42.4%, Male: Literacy: Total Population: 42.4%, Male: 58.1%, Female: 27.4%, as of 2003.58.1%, Female: 27.4%, as of 2003.

Clothing: Men usually wear T-shirts with Clothing: Men usually wear T-shirts with shorts while women wear either a skirt with a shorts while women wear either a skirt with a T-shirt or shorts with a T-shirtT-shirt or shorts with a T-shirt


CultureCulture

Traditions: Masks are made that represent Traditions: Masks are made that represent animals such as sharks, sawfish, hippos and bulls. animals such as sharks, sawfish, hippos and bulls.

Customs: Food is normally prepared with palm oil Customs: Food is normally prepared with palm oil and peanut sauces and variety of vegetables. The and peanut sauces and variety of vegetables. The people of Guinea-Bissau love to drink a sweet people of Guinea-Bissau love to drink a sweet green tea, known as “warga”. Also, non-Muslims green tea, known as “warga”. Also, non-Muslims like drinking cashew wine or palm wine.like drinking cashew wine or palm wine.

Languages: Portuguese is the official language. Languages: Portuguese is the official language. Other langauges are Crioulo, African languagesOther langauges are Crioulo, African languages

Religions: Muslim (50%), indigenous beliefs Religions: Muslim (50%), indigenous beliefs (40%), Christian (10%).(40%), Christian (10%).

CultureCulture

Foods: Fresh fish, fruits, vegetables, grains, Foods: Fresh fish, fruits, vegetables, grains, curd, whey, peppers, chilies, beef, goat, deer, curd, whey, peppers, chilies, beef, goat, deer, monkey, beaver, chicken and pork.monkey, beaver, chicken and pork.

Music and Dance: The Music of Guinea -Music and Dance: The Music of Guinea -Bissau is usually connected with the Bissau is usually connected with the polyrhythmic Gumbe genre. The main polyrhythmic Gumbe genre. The main musical instrument of Guinea-Bissau is the musical instrument of Guinea-Bissau is the calabash. It is used in extremely swift and calabash. It is used in extremely swift and rhythmically complex dance music. Guinea-rhythmically complex dance music. Guinea-Bissau’s National anthem is "Esta e a Nossa Bissau’s National anthem is "Esta e a Nossa Patria Bem Amada” which translates to “This Patria Bem Amada” which translates to “This Is Our Beloved Country”.Is Our Beloved Country”.

FestivalFestival

Happened on May 23, Happened on May 23, 2009.2009.

The first BIG UP GB The first BIG UP GB featured hip hop artists featured hip hop artists from Guinea-Bissau and from Guinea-Bissau and their neighboring their neighboring nations. nations.

The program includes The program includes hip hop musicians with hip hop musicians with a focus on social and a focus on social and political issues in political issues in Guinea-Bissau.Guinea-Bissau.


Guinea-Bissau has become transshipment Guinea-Bissau has become transshipment point for Latin American drugs.point for Latin American drugs.

One of the poorest countries in the world.One of the poorest countries in the world.

Several senior military figures are alleged to Several senior military figures are alleged to be involved in the trafficking of narcoticsbe involved in the trafficking of narcotics

Guinea-Bissau is a major hub for cocaine Guinea-Bissau is a major hub for cocaine smuggled from Latin America to Europe.smuggled from Latin America to Europe.

Country is dependent on primary crops like Country is dependent on primary crops like cashews.cashews.

What I LearnedWhat I Learned

I learned that Guinea-Bissau was once a I learned that Guinea-Bissau was once a model for African development, but since its model for African development, but since its many coups occurred and because of the many coups occurred and because of the drug trafficking it has fallen from grace as a drug trafficking it has fallen from grace as a developed country and has become known as developed country and has become known as one of the poorest countries. one of the poorest countries.


https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/pu.htmlworld-factbook/geos/pu.html

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/country_profiles/1043287.stmcountry_profiles/1043287.stm

http://www.nationsencyclopedia.com/Africa/http://www.nationsencyclopedia.com/Africa/Guinea-Bissau.htmlGuinea-Bissau.html

http://travel.mapsofworld.com/guinea-bissau/http://travel.mapsofworld.com/guinea-bissau/

MontserratMontserrat

Country Description Country Description

Official Name: MontserratOfficial Name: Montserrat

Capital: Plymouth (abandoned), St John's (de Capital: Plymouth (abandoned), St John's (de facto), Little Bay (planned)facto), Little Bay (planned)


Climate: Tropical, little daily or seasonal Climate: Tropical, little daily or seasonal temperature variation.temperature variation.

Location: Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, Location: Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, southeast of Puerto Rico.southeast of Puerto Rico.

Population 4,483 but 8,000 refugees left Population 4,483 but 8,000 refugees left Montserrat after volcanic activity in July of 1995Montserrat after volcanic activity in July of 1995


• Blue with the flag of the United Blue with the flag of the United Kingdom in the upper left corner Kingdom in the upper left corner

and the Montserratian coat of and the Montserratian coat of arms centered in the outer half of arms centered in the outer half of

the flagthe flag• The arms feature a woman The arms feature a woman named Erin in a green dress.named Erin in a green dress.

•She is the female personification She is the female personification of Ireland, standing beside a of Ireland, standing beside a yellow harp and embracing a yellow harp and embracing a large dark cross with her right large dark cross with her right

armarm• Erin and the harp are symbols of Erin and the harp are symbols of

Ireland reflecting the territory's Ireland reflecting the territory's Irish ancestryIrish ancestry

• Blue represents awareness, Blue represents awareness, trustworthiness, determination, trustworthiness, determination,

and righteousnessand righteousness


Terrain: Volcanic island, mostly mountainous, with Terrain: Volcanic island, mostly mountainous, with small coastal lowland.small coastal lowland.

Natural Resources: NegligibleNatural Resources: Negligible

Fauna: Terrestrial frog, Montserrat bird called the Fauna: Terrestrial frog, Montserrat bird called the Icterus oberi, agoutis, bats and lizards.Icterus oberi, agoutis, bats and lizards.

Flora: Fern groves, cacti, sage bushes and Flora: Fern groves, cacti, sage bushes and acacias.acacias.

Natural Hazards: Severe hurricanes from June to Natural Hazards: Severe hurricanes from June to November and volcanic eruptions the Soufriere November and volcanic eruptions the Soufriere Hills volcano has erupted continuously since 1995.Hills volcano has erupted continuously since 1995.

Montserrat is part of the Leeward Islands chain.Montserrat is part of the Leeward Islands chain.


Points of interest: Blakes Football Field: Opened in Points of interest: Blakes Football Field: Opened in 2002, has a lovely view of the ocean and 2002, has a lovely view of the ocean and mountains. It does not have dressing rooms or mountains. It does not have dressing rooms or stands.stands.

Carr’s Bay Historical Site: Has remnants of a fort Carr’s Bay Historical Site: Has remnants of a fort and cannons. You can see a model version of the and cannons. You can see a model version of the War Memorial and Clock Tower that was War Memorial and Clock Tower that was destroyed in Plymouth. Also, you might see the destroyed in Plymouth. Also, you might see the large iguana that lives in the rocks.large iguana that lives in the rocks.

The Montserrat Philatelic Bureau: You can buy The Montserrat Philatelic Bureau: You can buy stamps here, they have a wide variety. Shares the stamps here, they have a wide variety. Shares the same building with the Montserrat National Trust. same building with the Montserrat National Trust.


VacationVacation

The hosts of the vacation The hosts of the vacation are David and Clover Lea are David and Clover Lea and their family.and their family.

You have 4 options to You have 4 options to choose from: the choose from: the “Heavenly Suite”, the “Heavenly Suite”, the “Villa”, the “Mango “Villa”, the “Mango Cottage”, and the Cottage”, and the Backpacker’s Special”.Backpacker’s Special”.

All of the lodges are self All of the lodges are self catering catering

MontserratMontserrat

HistoryHistory

In 1632 English and Irish colonists from St. Kitts settled on In 1632 English and Irish colonists from St. Kitts settled on Montserrat.Montserrat.

In 1662, the first African slaves arrived,In 1662, the first African slaves arrived,

Throughout most of the 18Throughout most of the 18thth century France and Britain fought century France and Britain fought for control of Montserrat.for control of Montserrat.

In 1783, Britain finally gained control.In 1783, Britain finally gained control.

In the mid 19In the mid 19thth century Montserrat’s sugar plantation economy century Montserrat’s sugar plantation economy was converted into small farm landholdings.was converted into small farm landholdings.

On July 18On July 18thth 1995 Soufriere Hills Volcano erupted and destroyed 1995 Soufriere Hills Volcano erupted and destroyed most of the island while two thirds of the population left.most of the island while two thirds of the population left.

Ever since then, Montserrat has suffered from volcanic activity, Ever since then, Montserrat has suffered from volcanic activity, the last volcanic eruption happened in July of 2003the last volcanic eruption happened in July of 2003

History History

Current Event: On March 5Current Event: On March 5thth, the government , the government of Montserrat announced that St Vincent of Montserrat announced that St Vincent Grenadines Air has been approved to operate Grenadines Air has been approved to operate daily scheduled commercial air transport daily scheduled commercial air transport services between Montserrat and Antigua. services between Montserrat and Antigua. Two daily return flights with guaranteed seat Two daily return flights with guaranteed seat provisions will begin on Tuesday March 15, provisions will begin on Tuesday March 15, just in time for the busy St Patrick’s Festival. just in time for the busy St Patrick’s Festival. The one-way airfare per passenger will be The one-way airfare per passenger will be $74 plus tax.$74 plus tax.

PoliticalPolitical

Type of Government: Self-governing British Type of Government: Self-governing British overseas territory.overseas territory.

Government Leaders: Head of State Queen Government Leaders: Head of State Queen Elizabeth II, represented by Governor Peter Elizabeth II, represented by Governor Peter Waterworth. Chief Minister: Reuben MeadeWaterworth. Chief Minister: Reuben Meade

Suffrage: universal, you must be 18 years of Suffrage: universal, you must be 18 years of age.age.

EconomyEconomy

Industries: Tourism, rum, textiles and electronic Industries: Tourism, rum, textiles and electronic appliances.appliances.

Exports: Electronic components, plastic bags, Exports: Electronic components, plastic bags, clothes, hot peppers, limes, live plants and cattle.clothes, hot peppers, limes, live plants and cattle.

Imports: Machinery, transportation equipment, Imports: Machinery, transportation equipment, foodstuffs, manufactured goods, fuels, lubricants, foodstuffs, manufactured goods, fuels, lubricants, and related materials.and related materials.

Economic Status: Montserrat economy revolves Economic Status: Montserrat economy revolves around volcanic activity, its economic status is around volcanic activity, its economic status is very dependent on the United Kingdom. Its very dependent on the United Kingdom. Its external debt is $8.9 million.external debt is $8.9 million.

Major Trade Partners: none.Major Trade Partners: none.


Standard of living: Montserrat’s standard of living is Standard of living: Montserrat’s standard of living is not very good because most of the country is not very good because most of the country is uninhabitable, about 8,000 refugees left in July of uninhabitable, about 8,000 refugees left in July of 1995 and there is no more land for returning 1995 and there is no more land for returning refugees. The life expectancy for men is 76 years refugees. The life expectancy for men is 76 years while for women it is 80 years. while for women it is 80 years.

Literacy: Total population: 97%. Male: 97%, Female: Literacy: Total population: 97%. Male: 97%, Female: 97% as of 1970.97% as of 1970.

Clothing: Government officials normally wear suits Clothing: Government officials normally wear suits with ties and dresses. Men and women wear t-with ties and dresses. Men and women wear t-shirts, jeans, shorts and dresses. shirts, jeans, shorts and dresses.


CultureCulture

Traditions and Customs: Many traditions and Traditions and Customs: Many traditions and customs of Montserrat are linked to its Irish customs of Montserrat are linked to its Irish heritage. At funerals alcohol is consumed and heritage. At funerals alcohol is consumed and stories are told of the deceased. Many Montserrat stories are told of the deceased. Many Montserrat people decorate their homes with lights, tinsel people decorate their homes with lights, tinsel and baubles.and baubles.

Language: Major language is English.Language: Major language is English.

Religions: Anglican, Methodist, Roman Catholic, Religions: Anglican, Methodist, Roman Catholic, Pentecostal, Seventh-Day Adventist, other Pentecostal, Seventh-Day Adventist, other Christian denominations. Montserrat’s major Christian denominations. Montserrat’s major religion is Christianity.religion is Christianity.

CultureCulture

Food: Native-grown breadfruit, mango, sour sop, Food: Native-grown breadfruit, mango, sour sop, pawpaw, and cashews are the main Montserratian pawpaw, and cashews are the main Montserratian foods.foods.

Music and Dance: Montserrat’s music is heavily Music and Dance: Montserrat’s music is heavily influenced by its Irish background. The jumbie dance influenced by its Irish background. The jumbie dance is said to be the "purest manifestation of folk is said to be the "purest manifestation of folk religion on Montserrat”. It is performed by 4 religion on Montserrat”. It is performed by 4 couples, people switch out for each other until there couples, people switch out for each other until there is only one person left and this person is said to be is only one person left and this person is said to be possessed by the “jumbie”. Montserrat’s National possessed by the “jumbie”. Montserrat’s National Anthem is the “God Save the Queen” because it is Anthem is the “God Save the Queen” because it is owned by the United Kingdomowned by the United Kingdom

Festivities Festivities The Montserrat December The Montserrat December

Festival is the biggest Festival is the biggest celebration of the year. celebration of the year. The festival begins in The festival begins in

December and ends on December and ends on January 1January 1stst with a street with a street

parade. This celebration is parade. This celebration is strictly African and strictly African and

includes such instruments includes such instruments as the triangle, fife and as the triangle, fife and

two goatskin, deep-two goatskin, deep-barreled drums called barreled drums called

kettles. kettles.


To the the British Montserrat is known as the To the the British Montserrat is known as the "Emerald Isle of the Caribbean”."Emerald Isle of the Caribbean”.

Christopher Columbus gave Montserrat its Christopher Columbus gave Montserrat its name.name.

Half of Montserrat is said to be uninhabitable Half of Montserrat is said to be uninhabitable for another decade. for another decade.

Montserrat’s radio station only broadcasts in Montserrat’s radio station only broadcasts in FM because it lost its AM transmitter during FM because it lost its AM transmitter during volcanic activity in the late 1990s.volcanic activity in the late 1990s.

Montserrat’s Census Day is May 12, 2011.Montserrat’s Census Day is May 12, 2011.


I learned that some people really do love I learned that some people really do love where they live and will stay there to help where they live and will stay there to help rebuild. Some civilizations continue to last rebuild. Some civilizations continue to last because of the people that live there and because of the people that live there and care for it. I also learned that some people care for it. I also learned that some people may leave for a time but will want to return to may leave for a time but will want to return to help others rebuild, either that or they might help others rebuild, either that or they might not have anywhere else to go. not have anywhere else to go.


http://topics.nytimes.com/top/news/http://topics.nytimes.com/top/news/international/countriesandterritories/international/countriesandterritories/montserrat/index.html?scp=1-montserrat/index.html?scp=1-spot&sq=montserrat&st=csespot&sq=montserrat&st=cse

http://www.mapsofworld.com/flags/montserrat-http://www.mapsofworld.com/flags/montserrat-flag.htmlflag.html

https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/mh.htmlworld-factbook/geos/mh.html

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/country_profiles/3666502.stmcountry_profiles/3666502.stm

NiueNiue


Official Name: Niue Official Name: Niue

Capital: AlofiCapital: Alofi


Climate: Tropical. Modified by southeast trade Climate: Tropical. Modified by southeast trade winds.winds.

Location: Oceania, island in the South Pacific Location: Oceania, island in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Tonga.Ocean, east of Tonga.

Population: 1,761 as of 2004Population: 1,761 as of 2004


•The flag is yellow with the The flag is yellow with the flag of the United Kingdom flag of the United Kingdom

in the upper left side.in the upper left side.•The flag of the United The flag of the United

Kingdom bears five yellow Kingdom bears five yellow five-pointed stars. A large five-pointed stars. A large star on a blue disk in the star on a blue disk in the center and a smaller star center and a smaller star

on each arm of the bold red on each arm of the bold red cross.cross.

•The larger star stands for The larger star stands for Niue while the smaller stars Niue while the smaller stars

recall the Southern Cross recall the Southern Cross constellation on the New constellation on the New

Zealand flag and symbolize Zealand flag and symbolize links with that country.links with that country.•Yellow represents the Yellow represents the

bright sunshine of Niue and bright sunshine of Niue and the warmth and friendship the warmth and friendship

between Niue and New between Niue and New Zealand.Zealand.


Terrain: Steep limestone cliffs along coast, Terrain: Steep limestone cliffs along coast, central plateau.central plateau.

Natural Resources: Fish and arable land.Natural Resources: Fish and arable land.

Fauna: Pigs, dogs and rats.Fauna: Pigs, dogs and rats.

Flora: Coconuts, yams, cassava, limes, honey, Flora: Coconuts, yams, cassava, limes, honey, taro, passion fruit and sweet potatoes.taro, passion fruit and sweet potatoes.

Natural Hazards: TyphoonsNatural Hazards: Typhoons


Points of Interest: Alofi Bay: It stretches Points of Interest: Alofi Bay: It stretches Makapu Point to Halagigie Point.Makapu Point to Halagigie Point.

Avatele Bay: Similar to Alofi Bay.Avatele Bay: Similar to Alofi Bay.

Alofi: The country’s capital. Alofi: The country’s capital.


VacationVacation Located at the Northwest part of Niue Located at the Northwest part of Niue

near the village of Hikutavake.near the village of Hikutavake.

Best time to visit is around noon due Best time to visit is around noon due to the high walls on both sides of the to the high walls on both sides of the chasm.chasm.

The Sun can only penetrate around The Sun can only penetrate around this time and can get quite cold in this time and can get quite cold in the shade specially if there is a the shade specially if there is a breeze blowing.breeze blowing.

Some people are crazy enough to Some people are crazy enough to jump off the top of the chasm into the jump off the top of the chasm into the pool of water.pool of water.

There are some rock platforms where There are some rock platforms where you can sit down in the water to you can sit down in the water to refresh and appreciate the beauty of refresh and appreciate the beauty of the Chasm.the Chasm.

Matapa ChasmMatapa Chasm

HistoryHistory

On June 20On June 20thth,1774 Captain James Cook discovered Niue. He ,1774 Captain James Cook discovered Niue. He named it “Savage Island” because of the warlike people.named it “Savage Island” because of the warlike people.

On October 26On October 26thth, 1846, Peniamina and Fakafitifonua came , 1846, Peniamina and Fakafitifonua came back from Samoa and land at Mutalau in the north.back from Samoa and land at Mutalau in the north.

From 1940 to 1945, world War II did not demand Niuean From 1940 to 1945, world War II did not demand Niuean lives after the disastrous experience with WWI.lives after the disastrous experience with WWI.

In 1972, the Hanan Airport became operational This In 1972, the Hanan Airport became operational This opened flights to Niue from Auckland.opened flights to Niue from Auckland.

In 1974, Niue became self-governing.In 1974, Niue became self-governing.

In 1989, Cyclone Ofa struck and caused much damage to In 1989, Cyclone Ofa struck and caused much damage to Niue.Niue.

HistoryHistory

Current Event: In April Niue is celebrating it's 2nd Niue Current Event: In April Niue is celebrating it's 2nd Niue Culture and Arts Festival, it begins April 23rd and ends Culture and Arts Festival, it begins April 23rd and ends April 30th 2011. This festival is going to present the April 30th 2011. This festival is going to present the culture of the Niueans while letting Niue people culture of the Niueans while letting Niue people celebrate their heritage. The festival contains traditional celebrate their heritage. The festival contains traditional and contemporary Niue music, dance, poetry, drama, and contemporary Niue music, dance, poetry, drama, food, traditional sports. Also, the festival is aimed at food, traditional sports. Also, the festival is aimed at boosting the popularity and the economy of Niue. The boosting the popularity and the economy of Niue. The first ever Niue Culture and Arts Festival was held in April first ever Niue Culture and Arts Festival was held in April 2009 in Niue, about 150 Niueans attended from 2009 in Niue, about 150 Niueans attended from Wellington, Christchurch, Australia and Auckland. Any Wellington, Christchurch, Australia and Auckland. Any band may join the celebration, they just have to make band may join the celebration, they just have to make reservations prior to the festival. In conclusion, I think reservations prior to the festival. In conclusion, I think this is a great way to boost Niue's economy and this is a great way to boost Niue's economy and popularity while having a fun time. The celebration popularity while having a fun time. The celebration welcomes all who attends with respect and would love welcomes all who attends with respect and would love to have you in their Festival.to have you in their Festival.

PoliticalPolitical

Type of Government: Self-governing Type of Government: Self-governing parliamentary democracy.parliamentary democracy.

Government Leaders: Chief of State: Queen Government Leaders: Chief of State: Queen Elizabeth II, represented by Governor General Elizabeth II, represented by Governor General of New Zealand Anand Satyanand. The United of New Zealand Anand Satyanand. The United Kingdom and New Zealand are represented Kingdom and New Zealand are represented by New Zealand High Commissioner John by New Zealand High Commissioner John Bryan. Head of Government: Premier Toke Bryan. Head of Government: Premier Toke Talag.Talag.

Suffrage: Universal, must be 18 years old.Suffrage: Universal, must be 18 years old.

EconomyEconomy

Industries: Handicrafts and food processing.Industries: Handicrafts and food processing.

Exports: Canned coconut cream, copra, honey, vanilla, Exports: Canned coconut cream, copra, honey, vanilla, passion fruit products, pawpaws, root crops, limes, passion fruit products, pawpaws, root crops, limes, footballs, stamps and handicrafts.footballs, stamps and handicrafts.

Imports: Food, live animals, manufactured goods, Imports: Food, live animals, manufactured goods, machinery, fuels, lubricants, chemicals and drugs.machinery, fuels, lubricants, chemicals and drugs.

Economic Status: Suffers from typical Pacific island Economic Status: Suffers from typical Pacific island problems like geographic isolation, few resources, and problems like geographic isolation, few resources, and a small population. Niue’s National debt is $418,000 as a small population. Niue’s National debt is $418,000 as of 2002. Niue’s economy is supported by New Zealand.of 2002. Niue’s economy is supported by New Zealand.

Major Trade Partners: New Zealand, Australia, Japan Major Trade Partners: New Zealand, Australia, Japan and Fiji Islands. and Fiji Islands.


Standard of Living: is pretty good because if Niue Standard of Living: is pretty good because if Niue ever has economic difficulties New Zealand is ever has economic difficulties New Zealand is obliged under the island's constitution to provide obliged under the island's constitution to provide "necessary economic and administrative "necessary economic and administrative assistance". assistance".

Literacy: Total Population 95%.Literacy: Total Population 95%.

Clothing: Men usually wear hats to protect Clothing: Men usually wear hats to protect themselves from the hot sun, they also wear shorts themselves from the hot sun, they also wear shorts and T-shirts to stay cool. Women wear sun dresses and T-shirts to stay cool. Women wear sun dresses or a tank top with shorts. Men and women dress up or a tank top with shorts. Men and women dress up in tribal clothing while celebrating old time festivals. in tribal clothing while celebrating old time festivals.

Internet Usage: 1,100 as of 2009.Internet Usage: 1,100 as of 2009.

CultureCulture

Traditions and Customs: Much Niue’s traditions are Traditions and Customs: Much Niue’s traditions are influenced by New Zealand. A boy does not get his hair influenced by New Zealand. A boy does not get his hair cut until he becomes a teenager and there is a ceremony cut until he becomes a teenager and there is a ceremony for cutting the hair. Also, there is a ear piercing for cutting the hair. Also, there is a ear piercing ceremony for girls. Women weavers are highly respected ceremony for girls. Women weavers are highly respected in Niue. Sunday is a day of rest for the Niuean people.in Niue. Sunday is a day of rest for the Niuean people.

Languages: English is the official language. Niuean a Languages: English is the official language. Niuean a Polynesian language closely related to Tongan and Polynesian language closely related to Tongan and Samoan is spoken.Samoan is spoken.

Religions: Ekalesia Niue (Niuean Church - a Protestant Religions: Ekalesia Niue (Niuean Church - a Protestant church closely related to the London Missionary Society) church closely related to the London Missionary Society) (61.1%), Latter-Day Saints (8.8%), Roman Catholic (61.1%), Latter-Day Saints (8.8%), Roman Catholic (7.2%), Jehovah's Witnesses (2.4%), Seventh-Day (7.2%), Jehovah's Witnesses (2.4%), Seventh-Day Adventist (1.4%), other (8.4%), unspecified (8.7%), none Adventist (1.4%), other (8.4%), unspecified (8.7%), none (1.9%) as of 2001.(1.9%) as of 2001.

CultureCulture

Food: Paw Paw, limes, lemons, cocnuts, Food: Paw Paw, limes, lemons, cocnuts, bananas, taro, pok meat, fish, coconut crab, bananas, taro, pok meat, fish, coconut crab, uga, shells, poke loku, lu and pitako kapia.uga, shells, poke loku, lu and pitako kapia.

Music and Dance: Church choirs are very Music and Dance: Church choirs are very famous and perform on religious occasions. famous and perform on religious occasions. Also, singers are famous in Niue. Niue’s Also, singers are famous in Niue. Niue’s National anthem is "Ko e Iki he Lagi”, which National anthem is "Ko e Iki he Lagi”, which translates to “The Lord in Heaven”.translates to “The Lord in Heaven”.

FestivalFestival

Niuan boys do not cut Niuan boys do not cut their hair until they their hair until they become a teenager.become a teenager.

The hair is cared for by The hair is cared for by sisters, mothers and sisters, mothers and aunts until the boy has aunts until the boy has his hair cut.his hair cut.

The women tend the The women tend the hair one last time hair one last time before it is cut.before it is cut.


Niue is greatly supported economically by Niue is greatly supported economically by New Zealand.New Zealand.

New Zealand heavily influences Niue culture, New Zealand heavily influences Niue culture, traditions and religions.traditions and religions.

Niue encourages its New Zealand neighbors Niue encourages its New Zealand neighbors to leave their land.to leave their land.

Niue’s arts are not very developed.Niue’s arts are not very developed.

Weaving is the most important art in Niue.Weaving is the most important art in Niue.

What I LearnedWhat I Learned

I learned that the people of Niue take great I learned that the people of Niue take great care of their hair. They take great pride in care of their hair. They take great pride in caring for a boy’s hair until he becomes a caring for a boy’s hair until he becomes a teenager. Also, I learned that even though the teenager. Also, I learned that even though the people of Niue appreciate New Zealand’s people of Niue appreciate New Zealand’s support Niue people would like them to return support Niue people would like them to return to their own country and let Niue develop as a to their own country and let Niue develop as a country by themselves. I think that is is pretty country by themselves. I think that is is pretty interesting that there are ceremonies for interesting that there are ceremonies for getting your ears pierced and cutting your hair. getting your ears pierced and cutting your hair. When I cut my hair I think nothing of it but the When I cut my hair I think nothing of it but the people of Niue have a ceremony for it. people of Niue have a ceremony for it.


http://www.niuetotal.com/attractions-matapa-http://www.niuetotal.com/attractions-matapa-ing.htming.htm

https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/ne.htmlfactbook/geos/ne.html

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/country_profiles/4200400.stmcountry_profiles/4200400.stm

http://www.mapsofworld.com/country-profile/niue-http://www.mapsofworld.com/country-profile/niue-information-geography-history.htmlinformation-geography-history.html

http://www.seafriends.org.nz/niue/http://www.seafriends.org.nz/niue/history.htm#Timelinehistory.htm#Timeline

Sao Tome and PrincipeSao Tome and Principe


Official Name: Democratic Republic of Sao Tome Official Name: Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principeand Principe

Capital: Sao TomeCapital: Sao Tome


Climate: tropical. Hot and humid, with one rainy Climate: tropical. Hot and humid, with one rainy season from October to Mayseason from October to May

Location: Western Africa, islands in the Gulf of Location: Western Africa, islands in the Gulf of Guinea, straddling the Equator, west of Gabon.Guinea, straddling the Equator, west of Gabon.

Population: 165,400 as of 2010Population: 165,400 as of 2010

Flag Flag DescriptionDescription•The flag has three The flag has three

horizontal bands of green, horizontal bands of green, yellow and green with two yellow and green with two

black five-pointed stars black five-pointed stars placed side by side in the placed side by side in the center of the yellow band center of the yellow band

and a red isosceles triangle and a red isosceles triangle based on the left side.based on the left side.•Green stands for the Green stands for the

country's rich vegetation, country's rich vegetation, red symbolizes the struggle red symbolizes the struggle

for independence and for independence and yellow symbolizes cocoa, yellow symbolizes cocoa, one of the country's main one of the country's main

agricultural products.agricultural products.•The two stars symbolize The two stars symbolize

the two main islandsthe two main islands•The flag uses the popular The flag uses the popular

Pan-African colors of Pan-African colors of EthiopiaEthiopia


Terrain: Volcanic and mountainousTerrain: Volcanic and mountainous

Natural Resources: fish and hydropowerNatural Resources: fish and hydropower

Fauna: Mona monkey, black rat, and African civet, Fauna: Mona monkey, black rat, and African civet, green turtle, the leatherback, the olive riddley, the green turtle, the leatherback, the olive riddley, the hawksbill, the caouanne, African Gray Parrot, Dorhn's hawksbill, the caouanne, African Gray Parrot, Dorhn's thrush-babbler, Sao Tome giant sunbirds, dwarf olive thrush-babbler, Sao Tome giant sunbirds, dwarf olive ibis, thrush, Principe white-eye, Sao Tome short tail, ibis, thrush, Principe white-eye, Sao Tome short tail, giant weaver, Maroon pigeon and the Sao Tome fiscal giant weaver, Maroon pigeon and the Sao Tome fiscal shrike.shrike.

Flora: : Coffee, cocoa, ferns, orchids and giant begonia.Flora: : Coffee, cocoa, ferns, orchids and giant begonia.

Natural Hazards: N/ANatural Hazards: N/A


Points of Interest: Agostinho Neto: The largest Points of Interest: Agostinho Neto: The largest plantation in the country.plantation in the country.

Agua Izé: Visitors can tour the plantation by Agua Izé: Visitors can tour the plantation by train.train.

Boca de Inferno: The name translates to “Hell’s Boca de Inferno: The name translates to “Hell’s Mouth”, it is a sea water fountain several Mouth”, it is a sea water fountain several meters high.meters high.

Porto Alegre: Ancient fishing town.Porto Alegre: Ancient fishing town.

Pico de Principe: The island's summit which Pico de Principe: The island's summit which stands at 3128 feet.stands at 3128 feet.

Geographic Features Geographic Features

VacationVacation

It is the highest mountain It is the highest mountain in Sao Tome and in Sao Tome and Principe.Principe.

The mountain is 6,640 ft.The mountain is 6,640 ft.

People can only access People can only access the mountain on foot.the mountain on foot.

The mountain is a The mountain is a massive shield volcano massive shield volcano

The mountain is forested.The mountain is forested.

Pico de São ToméPico de São Tomé

HistoryHistory

In the 16In the 16thth century, Sao Tome and Principe was colonized century, Sao Tome and Principe was colonized by the Portuguese and they brought in slaves to work by the Portuguese and they brought in slaves to work sugar plantations.sugar plantations.

In the 1800’s, Cocoa was introduced to Sao Tome and In the 1800’s, Cocoa was introduced to Sao Tome and Principe and it developed into one of world's main cocoa Principe and it developed into one of world's main cocoa producers.producers.

In 1951, Sao Tome and Principe became an overseas In 1951, Sao Tome and Principe became an overseas province of Portugal.province of Portugal.

On 12 July of 1975, Sao Tome and Principe gained On 12 July of 1975, Sao Tome and Principe gained Independence. Manuel Pinto da Costa was made president Independence. Manuel Pinto da Costa was made president and Miguel Trovoada was made prime minister. and Miguel Trovoada was made prime minister.

In 1979, Trovoada was arrested and accused of being In 1979, Trovoada was arrested and accused of being involved in a coup attempt. Later he is released and goes involved in a coup attempt. Later he is released and goes into exile in 1981.into exile in 1981.

HistoryHistory

In 1990, a new constitution is made and allows In 1990, a new constitution is made and allows opposition parties, provides for multi-party opposition parties, provides for multi-party elections and restricts president to two five-year elections and restricts president to two five-year terms. Trovoada returned from exile.terms. Trovoada returned from exile.

In 1991, the first multi-part elections were held.In 1991, the first multi-part elections were held.

In 1996, Miguel Trovoada was made present.In 1996, Miguel Trovoada was made present.

In 1998, Guilherme Posser da Costa was made In 1998, Guilherme Posser da Costa was made prime minsterprime minster

In Decemeber of 2009, Nigeria and Sao Tome and In Decemeber of 2009, Nigeria and Sao Tome and Principe agreed to set up a joint maritime military Principe agreed to set up a joint maritime military commission to protect offshore crude oil fields.commission to protect offshore crude oil fields.

HistoryHistory

Current Event: Sao Tome Current Event: Sao Tome and Principe used to be and Principe used to be one of the most important one of the most important cocoa exporters in the cocoa exporters in the world. But today, many world. But today, many plantations don't produce plantations don't produce at all, and only a few still at all, and only a few still make a profit. The People make a profit. The People of Sao Tome and Principe of Sao Tome and Principe say crops are ok but they say crops are ok but they are trying to reinvent are trying to reinvent themselves and are trying themselves and are trying to find a new way to make to find a new way to make profit from their crops profit from their crops again. again.

PoliticalPolitical


Government Leaders: President Fradique Government Leaders: President Fradique Bandiera Melo De Menezes, Prime Minster: Bandiera Melo De Menezes, Prime Minster: Joaquim Rafael BrancoJoaquim Rafael Branco

Suffrage: Universal, must be 18 years old Suffrage: Universal, must be 18 years old

EconomyEconomy

Industries: Light construction, textiles, soap, beer, fish Industries: Light construction, textiles, soap, beer, fish processing and timberprocessing and timber

Exports: Cocoa (80%), copra, coffee and palm oilExports: Cocoa (80%), copra, coffee and palm oil

Imports: Machinery and electrical equipment, food Imports: Machinery and electrical equipment, food products and petroleum products.products and petroleum products.

Economic Status: Very dependent on cocoa Economic Status: Very dependent on cocoa production, because of drought and mismanagement production, because of drought and mismanagement cocoa production has declined. cocoa production has declined.

Major Trade Partners: Exports: UK (32.99%), Major Trade Partners: Exports: UK (32.99%), Netherlands (26.93%), Belgium (21.04%), Portugal Netherlands (26.93%), Belgium (21.04%), Portugal (4.31%) as of 2009. Imports: Portugal (58.9%), Brazil (4.31%) as of 2009. Imports: Portugal (58.9%), Brazil (6.68%), US (4.71%), Japan (4.49%) as of 2009.(6.68%), US (4.71%), Japan (4.49%) as of 2009.


Standard of Living: The people of Sao Tome Standard of Living: The people of Sao Tome and Principe are trying to reduce dependence and Principe are trying to reduce dependence on donors and cocoa exports by exploiting on donors and cocoa exports by exploiting offshore oil.offshore oil.

Literacy: Total Population: 84.9%, Male: 92.2%, Literacy: Total Population: 84.9%, Male: 92.2%, Female: 77.9%.Female: 77.9%.

Clothing: At higher elevations men and women Clothing: At higher elevations men and women tend to sweaters. Men wear basic shirts and tend to sweaters. Men wear basic shirts and shorts while women wear sun dresses, skirts shorts while women wear sun dresses, skirts and shorts with a shirtand shorts with a shirt

Internet Usage: 26,700 as of 2009Internet Usage: 26,700 as of 2009

CultureCulture

Traditions and Customs: Vegetables are cooked Traditions and Customs: Vegetables are cooked with red palm oil. Palm oil stews are the with red palm oil. Palm oil stews are the traditional food. People generally eat a hot meal traditional food. People generally eat a hot meal cooked before sunset and breakfast consists of cooked before sunset and breakfast consists of reheated food from the night before or tea and reheated food from the night before or tea and bread. A mother’s first-born is called bilibega bread. A mother’s first-born is called bilibega while the last-born is referred to as codabega. while the last-born is referred to as codabega.

Language: Official Language is Portuguese.Language: Official Language is Portuguese.

Religions: Catholic (70.3%), Evangelical (3.4%), Religions: Catholic (70.3%), Evangelical (3.4%), New Apostolic (2%), Adventist (1.8%), other New Apostolic (2%), Adventist (1.8%), other (3.1%), none (19.4%) as of 2001(3.1%), none (19.4%) as of 2001

CultureCulture

Food: Tropical root crops, rice, bread plantains, Food: Tropical root crops, rice, bread plantains, bananas, fish, fruit bats and monkey meat.bananas, fish, fruit bats and monkey meat.

Music and Dance: “Dexa”, “Ússua” and Music and Dance: “Dexa”, “Ússua” and “Socopé” are the genres of music in Sao Tome “Socopé” are the genres of music in Sao Tome and Principe. Dance versions are the and Principe. Dance versions are the Portuguese Ballroom dancing, “Tchiloli” and Portuguese Ballroom dancing, “Tchiloli” and “danço-congo”, which is a type of dance “danço-congo”, which is a type of dance opera. Sao Tome and Principe’s National opera. Sao Tome and Principe’s National anthem is "Independencia total” which anthem is "Independencia total” which translates to “Total Independence”. translates to “Total Independence”.


Religious festivals are Religious festivals are organized around the organized around the patron saints of towns patron saints of towns and parishes.and parishes.

People may travel from People may travel from other parts of the island other parts of the island to attend.to attend.


Corn is eaten as a snack food in Sao Tome and Corn is eaten as a snack food in Sao Tome and Principe.Principe.

When a person has died, the family members light When a person has died, the family members light candles in the room of the deceased. candles in the room of the deceased.

Usually the Sao Tome and Principe people bury the Usually the Sao Tome and Principe people bury the dead without the presence of a priest.dead without the presence of a priest.

A deceased adult who has not given birth or A deceased adult who has not given birth or fathered a child is buried with a flower on the coffin.fathered a child is buried with a flower on the coffin.

The most important Catholic rituals are baptism and The most important Catholic rituals are baptism and the wake, followed by a funeral mass. Other the wake, followed by a funeral mass. Other sacraments are rarely observed.sacraments are rarely observed.


I learned that the people of Sao Tome and I learned that the people of Sao Tome and Principe take great respect in burying their Principe take great respect in burying their dead. They respect the deceased and their dead. They respect the deceased and their belongings long after the person has died.belongings long after the person has died.


https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/tp.htmlworld-factbook/geos/tp.html

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/country_profiles/1064541.stmcountry_profiles/1064541.stm

http://www.mapsofworld.com/country-http://www.mapsofworld.com/country-profile/sao-tome-and-principe-information-profile/sao-tome-and-principe-information-geography-history.htmlgeography-history.html

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