Conventional Long Form: |
Republic of Cape Verde |
Conventional Short Form: |
Cape Verde |
Location: |
Western Africa, group of islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, west of Senegal |
Capital City: |
Praia |
Government Type: |
Republic |
Population: |
405,163 (July 2001 est.) TD> |
Area [sq.km]: |
4,033 (slightly larger than Rhode Island) |
Currency: |
Cape Verdean escudo (CVE) |
Languages: |
Portuguese, Crioulo (a blend of Portuguese and West African words) |
National Holiday: |
Independence Day, 5 July (1975) |
Background: |
The uninhabited islands were discovered and colonized by the Portuguese in the 15th century; they subsequently became a trading center for African slaves. Most Cape Verdeans descend from both groups. Independence was achieved in 1975. |