Cape Verde

The uninhabited islands were discovered and colonized by the Portuguese in the 15th century; Cape Verde subsequently became a trading center for African slaves and later an important coaling and resupply stop for whaling and transatlantic shipping. Following independence in 1975, and a tentative interest in unification with Guinea-Bissau, a one-party system was established and maintained until multi-party elections were held in 1990. Cape Verde continues to exhibit one of Africa's most stable democratic governments. Repeated droughts during the second half of the 20th century caused significant hardship and prompted heavy emigration. As a result, Cape Verde's expatriate population is greater than its domestic one. Most Cape Verdeans have both African and Portuguese antecedents.

Languages & Population

Approximate Population: 423,613 (July 2007 est.)

Nationality (Noun): Cape Verdean(s)

Nationality (Adjective): Cape Verdean

Official Language(s): Portuguese

Major Languages Spoken: Portuguese

Country Facts

Country Name (long form): Republic of Cape Verde

Country Name (short form): Cape Verde

Country Name (local long form): Republica de Cabo Verde

Country Name (local short form): Cabo Verde

Name of Capital: Praia

UTC Time Difference (from capital): UTC-1 (4 hours ahead of Washington, DC during Standard Time)

Countries Near by, and Bordering Cape Verde: Senegal

Land Area: 4033 sq km

Comparative Area: slightly larger than Rhode Island

Coastline: 965 km

National Holiday: Independence Day, 5 July (1975)

International Phone Code: 238

Currency Code: Cape Verdean escudo (CVE)

Internet Country Code: .cv

US Embassy Location: Rua Abilio Macedo n6, Praia

US Embassy Mailing Address: C. P. 201, Praia