Liberia was the first African republic to gain independence and is Africa's oldest continuously independent country. Ethiopia was never colonized, but endured an Italian occupation from 1936 to 1941. Both Liberia and Ethiopia were spared from the European colonial Scramble for Africa.
Liberia, a country along the coast of western Africa, is bordered by Sierra Leone, Guinea, Cote d’Ivoire, and the Atlantic Ocean. It is the only Black state in Africa never subjected to colonial rule and is Africa’s oldest republic.
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Liberia is a coastal nation in West Africa with a unique historical foundation and a resilient national identity shaped by recovery and reform. Founded in the 19th century as a settlement for formerly enslaved people from the United States, Liberia’s history sets it apart on the African continent.
Liberia, the oldest independent republic in Africa, lies on the West African coast, just 300 miles north of the equator. Portuguese explorers established contacts with Liberia as early as 1461 and named the area the Grain Coast.
Physical map of Liberia showing major cities, terrain, national parks, rivers, and surrounding countries with international borders and outline maps. Key facts about Liberia.
Provides an overview of Liberia, including key dates and facts about this west African country.
There are 16 ethnic groups that make up Liberia’s indigenous population. The Kpelle in central and western Liberia is the largest ethnic group. Americo-Liberians who are descendants of freed slaves that arrived in Liberia early in 1821 make up an estimated 5% of the population.