Angola
Geography
Angola is located in Southern Africa, and is the seventh-largest country on the continent. It is bordered by Namibia to the south, the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the north, Zambia to the east, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west. The country also includes the exclave of Cabinda, which borders the Republic of the Congo and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The country's terrain is varied, with coastal lowlands rising to high plateaus in the interior. The highest point in Angola is Mount Moco, which stands at 2,620 meters (8,600 ft) above sea level. The country's longest river is the Cuanza River, which flows for 965 kilometers (600 miles) from its source in the Bié Plateau to its mouth at the Atlantic Ocean.
History
Angola's history can be traced back to the early Stone Age, with evidence of human habitation dating back at least 25,000 years. The area was later inhabited by Bantu-speaking peoples who formed several kingdoms, including the Kingdom of Kongo and the Kingdom of Ndongo.
The Portuguese arrived in Angola in the late 15th century and established a colony, which they ruled for over 400 years. The struggle for independence began in the 1950s and culminated in the Angolan War of Independence, which ended in 1975 with the establishment of the People's Republic of Angola.
The country was then plunged into a long and bloody Angolan Civil War, which lasted from 1975 to 2002. The war resulted in the death and displacement of millions of people and left the country's infrastructure in ruins.
Politics
Angola is a unitary presidential republic, with the President of Angola serving as both head of state and head of government. The country's political system is dominated by the People's Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA), which has been in power since independence.
The country's legal system is based on Portuguese civil law and customary law. The judiciary is independent of the executive and the legislature, and the Supreme Court is the highest court in the country.
Economy
Angola's economy is one of the fastest-growing in the world, thanks largely to its abundant natural resources. The country is Africa's second-largest oil producer and also has significant reserves of diamonds, gold, copper, and other minerals.
Agriculture also plays a significant role in the economy, with the country producing coffee, sisal, corn, cotton, and other crops. However, despite its economic growth, Angola faces significant challenges, including widespread poverty, high unemployment, and a lack of infrastructure.
Culture
Angolan culture is a blend of African and Portuguese influences, reflecting the country's colonial history. The country's music, dance, and cuisine are particularly notable for their fusion of these influences.
Angola is also home to a rich tradition of storytelling, with oral narratives playing a central role in cultural expression. The country's literature has gained international recognition, with authors such as Pepetela and José Eduardo Agualusa receiving numerous awards.