Geography and Climate:
- Eritrea is the 99th largest country in the world by land area, covering approximately 117,600 square kilometers (45,400 square miles).
- The country's terrain includes desert lowlands along the Red Sea coast, a central plateau, and rugged mountains in the northwest and southeast.
- Eritrea has a hot, dry climate, with temperatures in the coastal lowlands often reaching over 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit).
- The central highlands experience a more moderate climate, with cooler nights.
History and Independence:
- Eritrea was an Italian colony from the late 1800s until 1941 when it was captured by the British during World War II.
- After the war, Eritrea was federated with Ethiopia until it gained independence in 1993 following a successful referendum and a war of liberation.
Demographics:
- The population of Eritrea is diverse, with a mix of ethnic groups including Tigrinya, Tigre, Afar, Saho, Kunama, and others.
- Tigrinya is the official spoken language, but a variety of other languages, including Arabic and English, are spoken.
Economy:
- Eritrea's economy is based on agriculture, livestock, and mining.
- The country has untapped mineral resources, including copper, gold, silver, and zinc, but their development has been hindered by political and economic challenges.
- Remittances from Eritrean diaspora communities abroad also play a significant role in the economy.
Politics:
- Eritrea is a one-party state, with the People's Front for Democracy and Justice (PFDJ) being the sole legal political organization.
- There have been concerns raised by international organizations and human rights groups about restrictions on freedom of speech and political rights in the country.
Natural Features:
- Eritrea has a beautiful coastline on the Red Sea and is known for its underwater coral reefs and marine biodiversity, making it a popular diving and snorkeling destination.
- The country is home to the Danakil Depression, one of the hottest places on Earth, and the Erta Ale volcano, which is known for its constant lava lake.
