Sao Tome and Principe

Discovered and claimed by Portugal in the late 15th century, the islands' sugar-based economy gave way to coffee and cocoa in the 19th century - all grown with plantation slave labor, a form of which lingered into the 20th century. While independence was achieved in 1975, democratic reforms were not instituted until the late 1980s. Although the first free elections were held in 1991, the political environment has been one of continued instability with frequent changes in leadership and coup attempts in 1995 and 2003. The recent discovery of oil in the Gulf of Guinea promises to have a significant impact on the country's economy.

Languages & Population

Approximate Population: 199,579

Nationality (Noun): Sao Tomean(s)

Nationality (Adjective): Sao Tomean

Official Language(s): Portuguese

Major Languages Spoken: Portuguese

Country Facts

Country Name (long form): Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe

Country Name (short form): Sao Tome and Principe

Country Name (local long form): Republica Democratica de Sao Tome e Principe

Country Name (local short form): Sao Tome e Principe

Name of Capital: Sao Tome

UTC Time Difference (from capital): UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC during Standard Time)

Countries Near by, and Bordering Sao Tome and Principe: Gabon

Land Area: 1001 sq km

Comparative Area: more than five times the size of Washington, DC

Coastline: 209 km

National Holiday: Independence Day, 12 July (1975)

International Phone Code: 239

Currency Code: dobra (STD)

Internet Country Code: .st

US Embassy Location: the US does not have an embassy in Sao Tome and Principe; the Ambassador to Gabon is accredited to S

US Embassy Mailing Address: none