Suriname
ALSO KNOW AS
Beating Heart of the Amazon
LOCATION
Suriname is situated on the north-eastern coast of South America. It is bounded by the Atlantic Ocean on the North, Guyana on the West, French Guiana on the East and Brazil on the South.
STATUS
Independent Republic – 25 November 1975
HISTORY
Amerindians inhabited the country up to the 15th century. Settlers came from England, The Netherlands, France and Germany among others. African slaves, indentured labourers from India, Indonesia and China were brought to Suriname during the 18th century. Struggle for possession by the French, British and Dutch ended with control by the Netherlands in 1815. Slavery was abolished in 1863. The country gained independence in 1975. In February 1980, a military coup brought commander Desi Bouterse into power. In 1987 national elections were held and democracy was restored. In October 1997, an attempt to overthrow the government was foiled.
MOTTO
Justitia, Pietas, Fides (Justice, Compassion, Loyalty)
CAPITAL
Paramaribo
CURRENCY
Surinamese Dollar
AIRPORT
Johan Adolph Pengel International, Zanderij
