The Culture Of Haiti

Sans Souci Palace in Milot, Haiti.

Haiti has a rich and distinct culture which is a blend of many cultures with significant French, African, Spanish, and indigenous Taíno influences.

The Caribbean nation of Haiti is located on the island of Hispaniola in the Greater Antilles archipelago. The country has a rich and distinct culture which is a blend of several cultures with significant French, African, Spanish, and indigenous Taíno influences.

Ethnicity, Language, And Religion

Haiti is home to a population of around 10,788,440 individuals. French and Creole are the official languages of Haiti. Roman Catholic Christians and Protestant Christians account for 54.7% and 28.5% of Haiti’s population, respectively. A significant section of Haitians also adheres to indigenous religious beliefs. 10.2% of the population do not follow any religion.

Cuisine

Haitian cuisine is a Creole cuisine that is a blend of the different culinary styles contributed by the many cultures inhabiting the country like French, Spanish, Arabic, African, and indigenous Taíno. The cuisine is characterized by simple dishes with a dash of bold and spicy flavors. Potatoes, beans, corn, rice, and plantains are the staples of the diet. Tropical fruits are also very popular in Haiti. The climate of the country supports the cultivation of many fruits. Rice with red kidney beans topped with tomatoes, onions, and red snapper, is a common dish. It is called Riz National. The dish is usually accompanied by bouillon, a soup with various potatoes, tomatoes, meats, and spices. Chicken, goat meat, and beef are frequently eaten. Tchaka is a hearty stew of Haitian cuisine that consists of squash, meat, and hominy beans. Cornmeal porridge called mais moulin, a thick vegetable stew called Légume Haïtien, Boulette or seasoned bread-bounded meatballs, etc., are other dishes eaten in Haiti.

Beer and rum are the most common alcoholic beverages. Clairin (a distilled spirit prepared from cane sugar) and Crémas (a creamy and sweet alcoholic beverage) are some local specialties.

A variety of fruit juices, non-alcoholic malt beverages, soft drinks, milkshakes, Haitian coffee, etc., are also popular in Haiti.

Literature And The Arts

Haiti’s literature has a relatively short history beginning with the independence movement in the country against French colonial rule in the late 18th century. During this time, many literary works were produced by Haitian writers focussing on nationalism and the movement for independence. Since then, Haitian literature has been inspired by the various phases of turmoil interspersed with periods of peace associated with the post-independence history of the country. As most of the Haitian writers are from the intellectual elite classes who are imbued with French culture, their writings also reflect significant French influences.

Haitian art features bright colors, sly humor, and innovative thoughts. The beauty of the country’s landscapes and the cultural aspects of a Haitian’s life are most commonly portrayed on canvas. Folk religious practices and rituals, wild animals, etc., also serve as themes for Haitian art and reminds of the African origin of much of its population.

Often public vehicles and wood boats in the country are painted with bright colors and interesting themes. The country’s artisans also produce a variety of wood, metal, and stone handicrafts that often cater to the tourist markets in the Caribbean region.

Performance Arts

Like cuisine, literature, and arts, the music and dance scene of Haiti also draws inspirations from the cultures of the various settlers in the country. Over a period of centuries, the music of the country has greatly evolved to give rise to unique genres and styles of music like rara parading music, mini-jazz rock bands, twoubadou ballads, hip hop kreyòl, etc. One of the most popular of these new musical styles is compas and méringue.

Like most other Caribbean islanders, Haitians love to sing and dance. The people dance on the streets during festivals like the Carnival and rara celebrations. Dancing during informal parties, church socials, and evening-outs with friends is very common. A type of religious dance inspired by African Vodou practices is performed by Haitians holding on to their ancestral beliefs. Social dance music is popular in the country. European dance forms like waltz, polka, quadrille, etc., are also performed by Haitians.

Sports

Football is Haiti’s most popular sport. It is played both professionally and informally throughout the nation. Haiti has its own national football team as well as hundreds of small football clubs at the local level. Football is a great source of entertainment for people. Men in the country socialize over a game of football. Stade Sylvio Cator in Haiti’s capital Port-au-Prince is used to play the game. It has a current capacity of seating 30,000 spectators. Basketball is also growing in popularity in Haiti. Tennis, swimming, weightlifting, fencing, and athletics are some of the other sports played in the nation.

Life In Society
In rural areas, both genders participate in agricultural work. The urban workforce, however, has a very small proportion of women. Many professions like that of construction workers, mechanics, general laborers, etc., have only men as employees. Even the white-collar jobs in the country are mostly held by men. In recent years, the number of women in the health and academic sector has increased to some extent. While women in Haiti’s elite urban society enjoy a good life, women belonging to the impoverished urban majority class are often vulnerable to abuse. The high unemployment rates make them susceptible to exploitation by their employees, partners, or other members of society. In rural areas, many women act as marketers and travel between urban and rural areas to sell their local produce. Such women usually have a certain degree of control over the financial affairs of their family.

Most people belonging to the elite and middle classes of the Haitian society marry. Marriage is not common among the lower classes.

 Cohabitation without marriage is more popular and is recognized by both society and law. Often, couples have children outside of marriage or marry when their children grow old. About 10% of Haitian men have more than one wife and maintain separate families. Such a practice is not legal but is often sanctioned by the community.
Households are generally nuclear in nature. While men are generally the owners of the houses, women act like the central figure that nurtures and cares for the family residing in the home.

While young, children are pampered a lot. However, in the rural areas, children are trained to assist their parents in their work at an early age. In the urban areas, children of the elite and middle classes are steered towards higher education so that they find respectable jobs in society. The urban poor, however, often have no choice but to engage their children in paid work. Fosterage is a system where some children are sent to live with other families to perform domestic chores for the family with the expectation that they will be well-fed and if fortunate enough, receive education sponsored by the foster family.

The Haitians are very expressive people and display emotions very openly. They greet each other extensively and it is considered rude to not do so. They also love to socialize and gossip with friends and family. Same-sex friends hold hands or hug each other frequently to display their friendship. The people of Haiti are also known to be good hosts who are very helpful to strangers visiting their country.

By Oishimaya Sen Nag

•culled from www.worldatlas.com

Ethnic Groups Of Guatemala

Indigenous girls in Chichicastenango,
Guatemala.

Guatemala's population has almost equal numbers of Mestizos and the aggregate of various indigenous peoples, along with smaller numbers of whites.

The Republic of Guatemala is a Central American country that borders several other South American States including, Honduras, El Salvador, Belize, and Mexico. Guatemala also borders the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean. The country has a population of more 15 million people and its capital, and largest city is Guatemala City. Guatemala's population has almost equal numbers of different indigenous peoples and Mestizo who are the biggest group including other smaller numbers of White, Q'eqchi', K'iche,' Mam among other indigenous groups.

Ethnic Groups Of Guatemala

Mestizo

The Mestizo of Guatemala are people of mixed native and European ancestry. The Guatemalan Mestizo population is mostly found in the urban areas of Guatemala such as the Capital City and other departmental capitals. At the time of Guatemala's independence, the Mestizo population rose to around 600,000. At present, the Guatemalan Mestizo accounts for 42% of the total population.

White

The White Guatemalans came from Europe in the 17th century with most of them being having Spanish ancestry from the colonial era. Locally born Spaniards are known as criollo. During the Spanish colonial period, the White Guatemalans sired children with the indigenous people of Guatemala giving rise to the mestizo ethnic group that has continued to dominate the population of Guatemala. Currently, the population of White Guatemalans accounts for 18% of the total population.

K'iche'

The K'iche' are an indigenous group belonging to one of the Maya people. Most of the K'iche' people speak their native language and have basic knowledge of Spanish. Most of the K'iche' people live in the highlands of Guatemala. The K'iche' account for 9% of the Guatemalan population.

Kaqchikel

The Kaqchikel are an indigenous group of the Maya people. About 400,000 Kaqchikel speak their native Kaqchikel language which happens to be one of the Mayan languages. The Kaqchikel practice agriculture and a culture fused with Spanish and Mayan influences. The current Kaqchikel population accounts for 8%.

Mam

The Mam are an aboriginal group who live in the Western highlands of Guatemala, and they speak the Mam language. Some of the Mam population reside in the mountainous region of northern Guatemala in small hamlets and have retained their customs and traditions. Some of the Mam are also bilingual speaking with the Mayan language and Spanish. The Mam accounts for 8% of the population in the country.

Q'eqchi'

The Q'eqchi' are also another Guatemalan ethnic group belonging to one of the Maya people and they speak their native language known as the Q'eqchi'. The Q'eqchi' community was dispersed into other Guatemalan regions due to migrations, land displacements and persecution. The Q'eqchi' account for 6% of the population.

Other Indigenous People Of Guatemala

Other indigenous ethnic groups in Guatemala include the Afro-Mestizo, the Garifuna, and the Afro-Guatemalans. Most of the other indigenous groups live in the Eastern end of Guatemala. There are smaller groups of Arabs who reside in Guatemala City, a good number of Jews who migrated from Germany and Eastern Europe during the 19th century and Asians mostly of Chinese and Korean descent whose ancestors came to Guatemala to work on the railroads and farms during the 20th century. The other indigenous group accounts for 9% of the population.

A good number of Guatemalans live outside of the country with their largest diaspora being the United States. Guatemala is a country that is ethnically diverse with a variety of languages, cultures, and race.

Ethnic Groups Of Guatemala

Rank Ethnic Group Share of Guatemalan Population

1 Mestizo 42%
2 White 18%
3 K'iche' 9%
4 Kaqchikel 8%
5 Mam 8%
6 Q'eqchi' 6%
Other Indigenous Peoples 9%

By Benjamin Elisha Sawe

•culled from www.worldatlas.com

The Culture Of Guatemala

Guatemalan culture reflects both Mayan and Spanish influences.

The Central American country of Guatemala has a rich culture that reflects strong Spanish and Mayan influences. A great contrast can be seen between the cultures of the poverty-stricken Mayan rural residents of the country who live in the highland region and the relatively wealthy mestizos (called Ladinos in Guatemala) living in the urban areas.

6. Ethnicity, Language, And Religion In Guatemala

Guatemala is home to a population of around 16,581,273 people. Ladino or Mestizo and Europeans constitute 60.1% of the country’s population. Maya is the second largest ethnic community accounting for 39.3% of the population. Spanish is the official language of Guatemala. Mayan languages are spoken by the indigenous Maya residing in the country. Christianity is the religion of the majority. Most of the country’s Christians are Roman Catholics while a few are Protestants.

5. Guatemalan Cuisine

The traditional cuisine of the country is based on Maya and Spanish cuisines. Beans, corn, and chilies are the most common ingredients used to prepare Guatemalan dishes. Tamales are one of the most popular foods consumed in Guatemala. It is prepared by steam-cooking corn-based starchy dough wrapped in a banana leaf or corn husk. Tamales are filled with a variety of fillings like meats, cheeses, chilies, vegetables, or fruits. The wrapping of the tamale can either be used as a plate for eating or discarded prior to eating. A variety of soups and stews are also consumed. Different types of rice like fried rice, plain yellow rice, beans and rice with coconut milk, etc., are prepared and served with meat or vegetable dishes. Popular desserts of the cuisine include banana cake, rice pudding, syrup-soaked bread, etc.

4. Literature And The Arts In Guatemala

Guatemalan literary works are either in Spanish or in the indigenous languages of the people. Prior to the arrival of the Spanish in Guatemala and subsequent colonial rule, Guatemalan written literature was sparse. The country, however, had a rich tradition of oral literature. During Spanish rule, literature flourished in the country. Some the earliest works included a collection of Mayan stories and legends called the Popol Vuh. It was written in the Quiché language in the 16th century to preserve Mayan traditions. Two centuries later, it was translated to Spanish by a Dominican priest. Other works also focussed on converting oral literature to written versions. Plays, poems, and stories were also penned down by Guatemalan writers during the colonial period. Nationalist literature became prominent at the time of the Guatemalan independence movement. In the 20th century, the country's literature had matured and diversified. It was also strongly influenced by politics. The successive dictatorships and civil wars significantly shaped the country's literary works.

Guatemala also has a rich heritage of art and craft. The indigenous artists produce artwork using centuries-old pre-Columbian traditions. A large number of Guatemalan artists produce work that reflects the influences of both indigenous and foreign art traditions. Many of the country’s artists have earned fame worldwide.

Textiles woven by women on the indigenous backstrap loom are globally famous for their fine quality. A wide variety of pottery is produced and is used for utilitarian purposes or have ritualistic significance. Traditional woolen blankets of the highlands region are also well-known. Wood carvings, hand-crafted toys, beaded jewelry, leather products, etc., are also produced by the country’s craftsmen.

3. Performance Arts In Guatemala

Guatemala has a diverse scene of music. Wind and percussion bands play religious music during the Easter-week processions and Lent. The Garifuna people who settled in Guatemala’s northeastern Caribbean coast have their own folk and popular music varieties. The Maya also have their distinct musical traditions. Colombian Cumbia has earned some popularity in Guatemala. In recent times, rock music has earned a large audience in the country. Guatemalan art music has a five-centuries-old history. However, it has been revived by performers only recently. Marimba is the most commonly used folk musical instrument.

2. Sports In Guatemala

Football is Guatemala’s most popular sport. The game is played throughout the country, both professionally and informally. Although the national football team of Guatemala has not qualified for the FIFA World Cup, it has participated in 18 editions of the CONCACAF Championship. It also won the latter competition in 1919. Guatemala’s national futsal team is very successful and has participated in every FIFA Futsal World Cup since 2008. Guatemalan athletes have also taken part in every Summer Olympics since 1968. Several other sports like tennis, basketball, swimming, athletics, etc., are also played in the country.

1. Life In The Guatemalan Society

The traditional Guatemalan society is patriarchal in nature. Gender roles are well-defined. While men are regarded as the primary breadwinners, women are expected to perform household duties and nurture children. Today, however, with the spread of education among women, many Guatemalan women work outside the home. The wages earned by women are still relatively lower than that of many in many sectors of employment. In rural areas, women take part in agricultural activities and grow fruits, vegetables, spices, and herbs for local consumption and sale. Men produce export crops and major food crops that require more labor-intensive activities. In urban areas, many women work as teachers, secretaries, nurses, clerks, etc.

Although some Mayan marriages are still arranged, most marriages in the nation are based on the couple’s choice. Families might disapprove at first but eventually, give in. Sometimes, the couple elopes to tie the knot. Private schools and private clubs allow the middle and upper-class Guatemalans to mingle freely and that gives rise to many romantic relationships. Monogamous relationships are the norm. However, among the poorer sections of society, marital ties are weak and often result in the men leaving their family for a mistress. The law of the country allows the women to sue their husbands for such behavior but poorer women have little resources to fight for their cause.

Most households are nuclear in nature consisting of the couple and their children. Sometimes, the couple lives with the man’s parents after marriage until they are able to arrange for a separate home. Rich families often gift homes or apartments to their children at the time of their marriage. Inheritance is by written or oral witnessed will. In the absence of a formal will, family agreements lead to the inheritance of the dead person’s assets.

Children are brought up according to their social class. Those belonging to the higher classes are often kept under the guidance of nannies and provided with the best educational facilities. Rural children usually assist their parents in their work from an early age.

Social etiquettes vary by ethnicity. The Maya children greet adults with great respect. They bow their heads and fold their hands as a gesture of respect. Adults greet each other verbally and ask about health and family well-being. In the past, the Guatemalan society was quite class conscious. However, the situation has significantly changed now. Undercurrents of tension between the indigenous Maya and the Ladinos still exist. Despite their differences, all Guatemalans love to celebrate life and are warm and welcoming towards foreign visitors. Thus, tourism in the country is growing fast.

By Oishimaya Sen Nag

•culled from www.worldatlas.com

What Religions Are Practiced In Grenada?

St. George's Anglican church in
Grenada.

Christianity is the most popular religion in Grenada.

Grenada is an independent nation that is located in the Caribbean Sea. The country comprises the main island of Grenada and six other smaller islands. Grenada’s population was estimated to be 107,317 in 2016 and the country occupies an area of 348.5 square km. Christianity is the most popular religion in Grenada.

The Religion Of The Majority In Grenada

The long colonial rule in the islands of Grenada left behind a legacy of Christianity in the country. Today, the majority of Grenada's population (more than 85%) are Christians. According to the CIA World Factbook, Protestants account for 49.2% of the population of the country. Roman Catholics are the next biggest Christian group representing 36% of the national population. Other Christian denominations have a limited presence in the nation. Among the Protestant groups living in Grenada, Pentecostals, Seventh Day Adventists, and Anglicans account for 17.2%, 13.2%, and 8.5% of the population, respectively.

Other Religions Practiced In Grenada

Many other religions have a small presence in Grenada. These include Rastafarianism, Hinduism, Islam, etc. Most of the Hindus in Grenada are descendants of workers who arrived from India. The country also hosts a small but significant population of atheists and agnostics. A section of the population also does not claim adherence to any particular religion.

Religious Beliefs in Grenada

Rank Religion Population (%)

1 Protestant Christian 49.2
2 Roman Catholic 36
3 Pentecostal 17.2
4 Seventh Day Adventist 13.2
5 Anglican 8.5

By Oishimaya Sen Nag

•culled from www.worldatlas.com

The Biggest Cities in Grenada

An aerial photo of the capital
St George's.

The small Caribbean island of Grenada houses St. George's, the capital and biggest settlement of Grenada.

Grenada is an island nation including the main island of Grenada and six smaller islands located in the southeastern section of the Caribbean Sea at the southern end of the Grenadines. Trinidad and Tobago, Venezuela, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines are the neighbors of Grenada. Known as the “Island of Spice,” the island of 344 square kilometers houses a population of 110,000. The biggest and capital city of Grenada is St. George's. Here, we discuss the biggest settlements on the island of Grenada and their important features.

The 5 Biggest Settlements In Grenada

St. George’s

The capital and the most populous urban center of Grenada is St. George’s. The town is on a horseshoe-shaped harbor surrounded by a hillside of an old volcano crater. The town is a popular tourist destination in the Caribbean region. The St. George’s University School of Medicine, a major university of medical education is located here. The Maurice Bishop International Airport, the main international airport of Grenada, is situated in St. George’s. The moderate tropical climate of the town allows the spice production to thrive. Cocoa bean, nutmeg, mace spice, and cacao are the chief export items here. The town holds a major carnival in the second week of August which involves dancing, feasting, and entertainment activities.

Gouyave

Gouyave is the most populous city and the capital of St. John in Grenada. It is located on the country’s west coast. Famous for its guava trees, the city was named Gouyave by the French although it was formerly named as Charlotte Town. An important annual event called the Fisherman's Birthday is celebrated in Gouyave every June 29. Competitive boat racing, feasts, and entertainment activities are held during this event and fishermen from all over the town participate in these activities.

Grenville

Grenville is Grenada’s fifth biggest town, and it is the capital of the country’s largest parish, the Saint Andrew Parish. The town is located on the Grenville Bay and is an important center of export of agricultural products. Grenville is a significant transportation and economic hub in the region and home to the country’s biggest nutmeg-processing plant. Fruit, vegetable, and meat stalls are hosted by the marketplace of the town. Minibuses operate within the town offering a means of commuting to the public residing here. The first airport of Grenada, the Pearls Airport is located on the outskirts of Grenville. Three secondary schools are also located here.

Victoria

Located in the Saint Mark Parish, Victoria is Grenada’s fourth most populous town. It is situated between Gouyave and Nonpareil settlements on the northwest coast of the island. It is a small fishing village and the St. Mark Parish’s center of activity.

St. David’s

St. David’s is Grenada’s fifth biggest town located in the Saint David Parish region.

Which Are The Biggest Cities In Grenada?

Rank Name Population

1 St. George's , Saint George 7,500
2 Gouyave, Saint John 3,378
3 Grenville, Saint Andrew 2,476
4 Victoria, Saint Mark 2,256
5 Saint David’s, Saint David 1,321
6 Sauteurs, Saint Patrick 1,320
7 Hillsborough, Carriacou and Petite Martinique 1,000

By Oishimaya Sen Nag

•culled from www.worldatlas.com

The Culture Of Grenada

Musicians perform in St. George's,
Grenada.

With its population’s African roots, storytelling has been an important tradition in Grenada.

Grenada is a Caribbean island country in the West Indies. It includes the main island of Grenada and six smaller islands to the north of this island. The culture of Grenada is heavily influenced by French culture. Place names and surnames in French are common in the country. The everyday language of the people is also laced with French words. African and Carib Amerindian roots of its population also influence the Grenadian culture.

6. Ethnicity, Language, and Religion in Grenada

Grenada is home to a population of around 112,207 individuals. Individuals of African descent account for 82.4% of Grenada’s population. Those of mixed descent and East Indians comprise 13.3% and 2.2% of the country’s population respectively. English is the official language of Grenada. French patois is also spoken widely. 49.2% of Grenada’s population adhere to Protestant Christianity. Roman Catholics account for 36% of the population. Other Christian denominations are also active in the country.

5. Grenadian Cuisine

The cuisine of Grenada reflects the country’s cultural diversity. Oil Down is regarded as the country’s national dish. It is a wholesome meal consisting of coconut milk, breadfruit, dumplings, taro leaves, and salted beef or fish. The meal is cooked in a large pot called karhee or curry pot. Callaloo soup is a soup made of a leafy green vegetable called callaloo. Rotis or flour skins/wraps are filled with vegetables, meat, fish, or curried chicken and are often eaten for lunch or dinner. Cou cou pois is another popular Grenadian dish. It is made of vegetables and corn flour cooked slowly to produce a stiff and smooth ball. It is served with chicken or fish dish. Fried bake and saltfish souse, curry goat, and pelau are other dishes widely consumed in the nation.
Coconut drops (cookies made with grated coconut, butter, sugar, flour, and egg), nutmeg ice cream, fudge, sweet potato pone (a sweet potato pudding), etc., are most widely consumed desserts of Grenadian cuisine. Rum and beer are popular alcoholic drinks in the country.

4. Literature and the Arts in Grenada

With its population’s African roots, storytelling has been an important tradition in Grenada. Folktales and legends were passed down through the generations via this oral tradition. Grenadian written literature, however, has a more recent history. It emerged in the second half of the 20th century with the spread of education among the country’s population. Wilfred Redhead, a short story writer, Ricardo Keens-Douglas, a children’s writer, and F.M. Coard, a dialect poet were among Grenada’s most celebrated writers of the 20th century. Grenadian literature experienced a major development during the Grenada Revolution. Nationalist literature emerged during this time. Today, the country’s literature is still evolving. Events like Poetry Slam and Spice Word Literary Festival are helping encourage the writers further.

3. Performance Arts in Grenada

The African and Carib-Amerindian heritage of the Islanders has influenced Grenada’s performing arts scene. Reggae, jazz, soca, Calypso, etc., are some of the country’s most popular genres of music. African dances introduced in the country have evolved over the years. European dances like quadrilles and picquets have also shaped the Grenadian dances. Today, some of the most popular dances on the islands are Carriacou Big Drum, Heel-and-Toe, and Quadrille.

2. Sports in Grenada

Like other Caribbean cultures, cricket is Grenada’s most popular sport. It is played both professionally and informally throughout the nation. Cricket matches attract massive crowds and serve as a great source of entertainment for people of all ages. The players of Grenada’s national cricket team also play in the Windward Islands cricket team. Domestic and international cricket matches are hosted at the Grenada National Cricket Stadium. Grenada’s athletes have also participated in every Summer Olympics since 1984. In 2012, Kirani James won the first gold medal for the country in men's 400 meters.

1. Life in the Grenadian Society

The traditional Grenadian society was patriarchal in nature. Gender roles were well-defined. Today, however, many Grenadian women are educated and employed. They constitute a significant percentage of the workforce. However, some traditional duties are still expected to be executed by women. Employed or not, they are expected to complete the household chores and manage children. Working men, however, usually do not participate in household duties.

Household sizes vary in Grenada from large, extended rural families to nuclear families in the congested cities. Children are primarily raised by the mother but other family members and even the community participates in their upbringing and engage in teaching them social values and etiquettes. Inheritance is usually patrilineal in Grenada. Men inherit the wealth of their father and are responsible for providing for their own family.

Education beyond the primary level is accessible to only a select few who can afford the expenses of a university degree. Scholarships are given out to exceptional students from poorer backgrounds to ensure they can continue their studies.

Grenadians are very social in nature. They love to get together with friends and family to discuss the day’s proceedings or family life. Grenadians are also great hosts. Guests are welcomed with food and drinks and offered a place to rest.

By Oishimaya Sen Nag

•culled from www.worldatlas.com

The Ethnic Composition Of El Salvador

People in San Salvador, El Salvador.

Mestizo constitutes over 85% of the population of El Salvador.

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Demographics

El Salvador is an independent country in Central America, and it borders Honduras and Guatemala. The country’s population was 6.34 million people according to the estimates of 2016. El Salvador hosts different ethnic communities, and Mestizos are by far the largest ethnic group accounting for 86.3% of the population while the second largest ethnic group are white Salvadorans who account for about 12.7% of the country’s population. The remaining 0.8% is the black ethnic group, and 0.64% represents other ethnic groups within the country.

The Mestizos

The Mestizo ethnic group in El Salvador are the largest in the country, accounting for 86.3% of the total population in El Salvador. This ethnic group is a mixture of European and indigenous ancestry. On the other hand, other Salvadorans of European ancestry particularly originating from the Mediterranean region, the Afro-Salvadoran, and other native individuals who cannot speak the native languages or do not have the native culture also classify themselves as mestizos.

The Indigenous Ethnic Group

According to the government of El Salvador, people who trace their ancestry partially or fully to the indigenous people account for less than 1% of the total population. The largest groups of the indigenous (Amerindians) people are the Maya, Lenca, and Pipil. Other Amerindians or the indigenous communities include the Cacaopera people, Mangue people, Mixe people, Alaguilac people, Xinca people, and Olmec people. The Pipil are found mostly in the western and central part of the country while the Lenca are found mainly in the Eastern part of the Lempa River. The Cacaopera people live in small populations in the Morazan department, and the Ch'orti' people live near the Guatemalan border in the Ahuachapán department.

White Salvadorans

White Salvadorans account for 12.7% of the total population, and most of them trace their ancestry to the Spanish People, and some of them are descendants of Italians, Irish, English, Swiss, German, and French. The white Salvadorans who live mainly in the department of Chalatenango are believed to be descendants of the Spanish who settled in the region during the 18th century. At the time the governor of San Salvador was Francisco Louise Hector de Carondelet, who had ordered people from northern parts of Spain, particularly in the region of Asturias and Galicia to settle in the region because they were experiencing a shortage of laborers in the region.

Arab Salvadorans

El Salvador is also home to an ethnic group who trace their ancestry mainly to the Arab land, particularly Lebanon and Palestine or Bethlehem. Currently, there are about 70,000 people who trace their ancestry to Palestine and 25,000 who trace their roots to Lebanon. The number of Palestinian Salvadorans in El Salvador is the second-highest population of the ethnic group in the whole of Central America after Honduras. Most of them trace their ancestry to Palestinians who emigrated from Jerusalem and Bethlehem to El Salvador in the 20th century to look for economic opportunities and to escape conscription into the army of the Ottoman Empire. The Palestinians who immigrated to El Salvador were mostly Christians and had hoped to return to their homeland, but the majority remained in El Salvador and started their families. All immigrants from the Middle East are often referred to as “Turks” because they had the Ottoman passports and they were barred from public organizations, civil society, and government jobs. Between the 1930s and 1940s, the laws in El Salvador barred the immigrants from the Middle East into the country.

Afro-Salvadorans

The Afro-Salvadorans refers to the ethnic group of people who trace their origins to Africa. Many were brought to El Salvador as slaves to work in specific regions, particularly in the mines. Approximately 10,000 people of African origin were brought into the country over 75 years period starting from 1548.

By Benjamin Elisha Sawe

•culled from www.worldatlas.com

Religious Beliefs In El Salvador

A Christian church in the center
of a town in El Salvador.

Christianity is the most popular religion in El Salvador.

The Central American country of El Salvador is the region’s smallest nation. With a population of about 6.34 million living in an area of 21,041 square km, El Salvador is also the most densely populated region. The majority of the country’s population comprises of Mestizos with native American or European ancestry.

Christianity is the dominant religion in the country. Christians account for nearly 80% of the total population of El Salvador. 17% of the population are atheists and agnostics or do not claim to be affiliated with any religion. The remaining 3% of the population are affiliated with religions like Islam, Hinduism, Judaism, Buddhism, etc.

The Largest Religion In El Salvador

Both Catholics and Protestants have a significant presence in El Salvador. About 43% of the population adhere to the Catholic Church of the country. The Catholic Church is recognized by the country’s Constitution and granted a legal status in the country. Catholicism was introduced in El Salvador following the invasion of the country by a Spanish conquistador in the 16th century. Although the religion grew fast in the country since then to become the most popular religion in El Salvador, in recent times, the religion has experienced a decline in popularity. The decline is most noticeable in the younger age group than the elderly people.

Protestant Christians account for 37% of the population of the country making this group the second largest Christian group in El Salvador. Other Christian denominations also have followers in the country in lower numbers.

Other Religions Practiced In El Salvador

Several other religions are practiced by El Salvador’s minority communities. Most of the Muslims of the country trace their origins to Yemen. There are around 1000 to 1500 Muslims residing in the country. Central America’s first Islamic magazine was published by El Salvador’s Shia community. Jews have had a presence in El Salvador since the beginning of the 19th-century. The Sephardic Jews were the first to arrive from Spain and later, the Ashkenazi Jews arrived to escape the persecution during the Second World War. Hindus and Buddhists in El Salvador are mainly from South and Southeast Asia. A small percentage of the indigenous people of El Salvador also practice their traditional religions which are based on spirit and nature worship.

By Oishimaya Sen Nag

•culled from www.worldatlas.com

The Culture Of El Salvador

Participants in the Independence Day
Parade in San Salvador, El Salvador.

Salvadoran culture is characterised by a mix of Native American and Latin American cultures.

El Salvador is Central America’s smallest nation by size. It is also the most densely populated nation in the region. Salvadoran culture is characterized by a mix of Native American and Latin American cultures. The Maya, Lenca, Pipil, and Cacaopera people have all contributed to the country's culture.

Ethnicity, Language, and Religion in El Salvador
El Salvador is home to a population of 6,187,271 individuals. Mestizo people comprise 86.3% of the total population. White, Amerindian, and black peoples account for 12.7%, 0.2%, and 0.1% of the country’s population respectively. Spanish is El Salvador’s official and most spoken language. The Roman Catholic Church has the highest following in the nation. 50% of the country’s population adhere to this faith. Protestant Christianity is the next biggest religion with 36% of the population professing this faith. 12% of the population do not adhere to any religion.

Cuisine of El Salvador

The cuisine of El Salvador is influenced by Amerindian and Spanish cuisines. Corn features predominantly in most Salvadoran dishes. A variety of meats like pork, beef, chicken, etc., are eaten. Salvadorans also consume a variety of seafood like clams, shrimp, octopus, snails, squid, etc. Some of the notable dishes of this cuisine are pupusa (a stuffed tortilla made of rice or corn flour and stuffed with cheese, pork, or other fillings), refried beans, Pollo encebollado (chicken and onion dish), yuca frita (deep-fried cassava root serves with a variety of pickles), etc.

Soft drinks called cokas are popular among teenagers. Coffee is consumed by Salvadorans of all ages. Kolachampan (soda with sugar cane flavor), ensalada (pineapple juice with chopped fruits), tamarindo juice, coconut water, etc., are other beverages preferred by these people. Beer is the most common alcoholic beverage in the country. Tic Tack, a distillate of sugar cane is regarded as El Salvador’s national liquor.

Literature and the Arts in El Salvador

Written literature developed in El Salvador during the Spanish colonial rule . Prior to that, most literature was in the oral form. Thus, the country has a rich heritage of folk tales and legends. As formal education in Spanish became accessible during colonial rule, literature written by Salvadorans in Spanish began to appear. Initially, most of this work was of religious nature. Non-secular Salvadoran written literature emerged in the later years of colonial rule in the form of historical accounts, short stories, novels, etc. Today, Salvadoran literature is a large body of work that is quite rich in content.

Salvadoran folk art typically depicts images of animals as well as village life, and cultural celebrations. The folk paintings use bright colors and are visually appealing. Street art is a popular form of expression of thoughts and emotions. Homes and other buildings often have bright paintings on their exterior walls. El Salvador is also famous for numerous handicrafts. Pottery of Ilobasco, processed textiles of San Sebastian, woven religious imagery of Concepción de Atacó, red and black pottery of Guatajiagua are some of El Salvador’s indigenous crafts.

Hammocks are also produced and exported in large numbers in El Salvador. It is often dubbed "The Valley of the Hammocks”. The country has a “hammock culture" where almost every home in all social classes have a hammock hung in the porches, outdoor courtyards, or living rooms. Salvadorans love to use the hammock for afternoon naps and for resting after a busy day at work.

Performance Arts in El Salvador

El Salvador has a rich musical heritage that ranges from folk music to contemporary music. Salvadoran music exhibits Mayan, Lenca, Spanish, Pipil, and Cacaopera influences. Some of the most popular styles of music in El Salvador are Native Mesoamerican indigenous music, Salvadoran hip hop, and Salvadoran Cumbia. Marimba, a type of traditional folk music introduced by African slaves, has a significant presence in the country. Salvadoran rock and hip hop/rap are popular among the youth. The former arrived in the country before the breakout of the civil war. The latter, however, has a more recent history and arrived after the civil war. Xylophones, guitars, pianos, flutes, drums, glass harmonica, scrapers, gours, etc., are some of the instruments used to play popular music in El Salvador.

Sports in El Salvador

Association soccer is the most popular sport in El Salvador. Basketball, baseball, swimming, and tennis are some of the other popular games played in the country. Estadio Cuscatlán in El Salvador’s capital San Salvador is Central America’s largest stadium. It has a capacity of more than 45,000 spectators. Many soccer clubs exist in the country and compete against each other for the top position. The ten best soccer clubs of the country play in the Primera División. Soccer is the most watched spectator sport in El Salvador.

Life in the Society of El Salvador

Although the traditional El Salvadoran society has been patriarchal in nature, a significant number of Salvadoran women are now part of the country’s workforce. Since the civil war, women have come to the forefront by directly participating as combatants or working in supporting roles as cooks, nurses, etc. Many also earned leadership positions in politics and the military. Despite the significant achievements of the country’s women during the war, many were also left in great economic stress post-war.

Families headed by single women increased as many men died or abandoned their families. These families live in extreme poverty. Today, however, the Salvadoran women are fighting all odds to get their rights recognized and achieve true equality in society.

Marriages in El Salvador are generally based on the decision of the couple. Informal cohabitation of partners without a church or civil marriage is also quite common. Children are often born out of such informal relationships. Many couples marry later in their life, often after having children. Formal marriages require the couple to reach adulthood but the laws are relaxed in case the female partner is pregnant or has children. Divorces are not very uncommon.

Households in El Salvador are usually nuclear in nature consisting of a couple and their children. Single-women led households are also common. In traditional families, a man is the nominal head of the family. Women, whether working outside the home or not, are generally responsible for household management and child rearing. Working men hardly participate in such activities.

Children are adored in society. Often grandparents are requested to take care of the children, especially when the mothers are working outside the home. Education is considered important but the poorer sections of society often have low literacy levels.

Respect for the older persons and those belonging to a higher status is considered an important part of the etiquette in El Salvador. Women in the country are expected to be respectful towards men. Children are taught to respect their elders. Greetings are also regarded to be an important way to shower respect. A person must be addressed properly. Failure to greet someone is considered offensive.

By Oishimaya Sen Nag

•culled from www.worldatlas.com

What Languages Are Spoken In Dominica?

The flag of Dominica.

English is the official and most widely spoken language of Dominica.

Located between Martinique in the Eastern Caribbean and the Guadalupe Islands in France, Dominica is an island of volcanic origin officially known as the Commonwealth of Dominica. The Island’s official name is often used to distinguish it from the Dominican Republic. Dominica is also a sovereign country whose capital is Roseau, and it gained independence in 1978 after it was colonized by the French and eventually the British. Dominica’s historical background has been highly influenced by several different countries thus the region has a diverse cultural background. In this regard, languages spoken in Dominica comprise of mixtures of the different dialects and languages from its colonizers, inhabitants, and surrounding countries as well.

The Importance Of English In Dominica

English is the national and official language of Dominica. It is widely used throughout the Island especially by the young generation. Schools in Dominica use English not only as a means of communication but also the language of instruction. Since tourists from different countries flock the region, English is the language that is officially and widely spoken. The English language in Dominica can trace its roots to 1805 when Great Britain set up a small colony in the region.

Creole

In the years before Dominica was officially colonized by the British, both British and French fought for control over the Island. Even though the French renounced the region to the British, there are still traces of French, African and other languages from local cultures found within Dominica. Creole is a unique patois that features a mixture of languages including French, Caribe, and African grammatical rules and vocabulary. Despite the Creole language being part of the Dominican culture and having been spoken for years, at present, only the older generation know and use the language. Therefore, the government of Dominica has been trying to create ways in which the language can be preserved as part of the Island’s rich and unique culture.

Island Carib

The Island Carib language is also known as Igneri, and it was a Maipurean language that was historically spoken in the island of Caribs a part of the Lesser Antilles in the Caribbean. The language was widely spoken throughout the regions of the Lesser Antilles such as Dominica, Trinidad, and St. Vincent. Igneri became extinct around the year 1920. However, another language known as Garifuna was developed from it, this dialect still survives and is primarily spoken in parts of Central America.

Kokoy

The dialect known as Kokoy is another Creole language spoken in Dominica. Kokoy is a form of Pidgin English comprising a mixture of Dominican creole and Leeward Island English Creole. The language was imported by immigrants from Montserrat and Antigua during the 19th century. Kokoy is commonly spoken in the regions of Wesley, Clifton, Marigot, Roger and Woodford Hill.

Linguistic Diversity In Dominica

Perhaps the biggest advantage of having diversity in the region is that the country gets to be a member of both the English-speaking Commonwealth nations and the French-speaking Francophonie. On the other hand, one of the biggest disadvantages is linguistic discrimination. As shocking as it may seem, speakers of some of the local dialects such as Kokoy have had to fight against discrimination. Since English is the country’s official language, dialects such as Kokoy were perceived as less refined. Such languages were thought to be the language of the illiterate and uneducated. However, some degree of respect has been given to some of the local dialects over the recent years.

By Joyce Chepkemoi

•culled from www.worldatlas.com

What Is The Ethnic Composition Of The Population Of Dominica?

A souvenirs vendor along the main
harbor street in Roseau, Dominica.

Around 75% of the Dominicans are of African descent.

The Commonwealth of Dominica is an island state in the Windward Islands of the Caribbean Sea. It extends over an area of about 280 square miles and has a population of roughly 75,000. The Kalinago people inhabited the island before it was colonized by the French between 1690 and 1763, and Great Britain from 1763 to 1978. Dominica is the youngest of the lesser Antilles Islands and continues to be shaped by volcanic activities.

Ethnic Groups In Dominica

A majority of the people in Dominica are of African descent (87%). There is also a minority white population consisting of the descendants of British and French colonists, and people of Irish ancestry (1.3%). Foreign immigrants to the country consist of Asians, Syrians, and Lebanese (0.2%). It is the only Eastern Caribbean island that still hosts the native Kalinago people who were driven out or exterminated from the other islands. However, the indigenous population is shrinking quickly as intermarriage and westernization erode the native culture and language. It is estimated that there are about 3,000 (2.9%) Kalinago people remaining. Years of intermarriage between the Africans and the Whites have led to a mixed racial population (9%). The native population resides in a protected territory consisting of eight villages on the east coast issued by the British Crown in the early 20th century. About 1,000 medical students from Canada and the United States schooled at the Ross University School of Medicine before the institution was transferred to Barbados due to recurrent damage by hurricanes. The population growth in the country is low due to immigration to the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and Canada.

The average life expectancy in Dominica is about 74 years, but the number of centenarians is three times that of developed countries. The reason for this is currently being studied by the World Health Organization and the Ross University School of Medicine.

Languages Spoken In Dominica

The official language of Dominica is English. The language is spoken and understood by about 95% of the population. The Dominican creole; based on the French language, is also spoken due to French immigrants who migrated to the island during the colonial period. The Dominican creole is popular among the older generation that also speaks a patois language. Dominica is a member of La Francophonie. The younger generation prefers English and French due to global interactions, and the use of creole by the generation is on a steep decline. The government has stepped up efforts to increase and promote the usage of the creole language to restore and conserve the country's history and culture. Descendants of immigrants from Antigua and Montserrat on the northeastern edge of the country speak pidgin English known as Kokoy.

Religion In Dominica

Dominica is historically Roman Catholic , but in recent years different Protestant churches have emerged. About 62% of the population is Roman Catholic, while 10 to 12% belong to the Seventh-day Adventist Church. The non-Christian population consists of spiritualism (2.6%), Bahai (1.7%), Agnosticism (0.5%) and Hinduism, Buddhism, and Islam each account for 0.1% of the population.

By Victor Kiprop

•culled from www.worldatlas.com

Religious Beliefs In The Dominican Republic

A church located in the Dominican
Republic.

An overwhelmingly Catholic region since early in the Spanish Colonial Era, Protestant Christianity has grown rapidly in the Dominican Republic.

Roman Catholic Christianity is the religious group with the biggest following in the country. The Church has contributed immensely to the socio-economic development of the Dominican Republic through the projects it has initiated especially before the country attained its independence. Among the projects initiated by the Church include schools and hospitals. It has been at the forefront in agitating for proper governance and accountability especially through its national council of bishops. Protestant Christianity is also significant in its membership and is growing fast. The other religious groups include Atheism, Islam, Judaism and Eastern religions among others.

Religious Beliefs In The Dominican Republic
Roman Catholic Christianity

It is the most dominant religious group constituting over three-quarters of the country’s population. It was introduced into the country by the Christian missionaries who came to the country before independence. The Church has over 1.6 million baptized members that confess the religion. It has over 800 members serving in the priesthood that is distributed throughout its 11 territorial dioceses. The trace of Catholic found in the country is mixed with elements of the native people’s traditions and other external practices especially from Western Africa. The Church became accommodative of some of their native culture and incorporated them into their liturgy. The use of drums was one of them. Presently, Roman Catholics constitute 75% of the total population in the country.

Protestant Christianity

They make up 20% of the country’s population. It is a fast-growing segment of the Republic’s population mainly due to the strong evangelistic efforts of the Protestant churches. Some of the dominant groups include the Assemblies of God, Seventh-Day Adventists, Pentecostals, and Baptists among several others. Morgan Foley is credited with the spread of Protestant Christianity in the country since the 1800s. Other adherents of the religion came into the country from the US and West Indies in the 19th Century.

Judaism

The country has a small population of Jews practicing the religion numbering a few hundred. It mainly came to the country when President Rafael Trujilo accepted a hundred thousand Jews into the country from Germany and other places where they were facing persecution. They mostly live in Santo Domingo and Sosua regions where there are synagogues to facilitate their religious practices. The religious liberty in the country has enabled the Jews to practice their faith with limited hindrance. However, Judaism has not spread extensively to other cultural groups apart from the descendants of the original migrant groups.

Buddhism

It was brought into the country in the 1960s by two Japanese immigrants. They mainly practice the Mahayana style of Buddhism according to the initial traditions of the founders. They have two primary centers in the country called Zen and Nichiren where they gather for the religious duties. The religion has not spread extensively especially to the native people and is mainly adopted by immigrants from the Eastern countries where the religion has its roots.

Impact Of Religions In The Dominican Republic

Even though there is a small group that does not subscribe to any religion, most of the country’s citizens are religious. The government has supported the liberty and freedom of worship without any hindrance. The religious groups mainly Catholic Church has assisted in the development of various aspects of the socio-economic development.

Religious Beliefs In The Dominican Republic

Rank Belief System Share of Population in the Dominican Republic

1 Roman Catholic Christianity 75%
2 Protestant Christianity 20%
3 Atheism or Agnosticism 3%
Caribbean Vodou, Islam, Judaism, Eastern Religions, or Other Beliefs 2%

By Joyce Chepkemoi

•culled from www.worldatlas.com

The Culture Of The Dominican Republic

Carnaval celebration in Cabarete,
Dominican Republic.

The Dominican Republic has a diverse culture reflecting influences of cultures from around the world.

The Dominican Republic is located on the island of Hispaniola in the Caribbean region. It has a diverse culture reflecting the influences of cultures from around the world, especially native Taíno, African, and Spanish cultures.

6. Ethnicity, Language, and Religion in the Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic has a population of 10,298,756 individuals. Over 70% of the population comprises of mestizo or mulatto peoples who are individuals of mixed descent. Those of black and white racial backgrounds account for 15.8% and 13.5% of the population respectively. Spanish is the official language of the Dominican Republic. 95% of the population adhere to Roman Catholic Christianity.

5. Cuisine of the Dominican Republic

The cuisine of the Dominican Republic is influenced by indigenous Taíno cuisine as well as Spanish and various African cuisines. Many of the dishes of this cuisine are similar to those prepared in other parts of Latin America and the Caribbean, although names might differ. Meats are generally preferred over vegetables and carbohydrates. A traditional breakfast usually consists of mangú, fried eggs, salami, fried cheese, sauteed onions, and avocado. Lunch is the main meal of the day and consists of rice served with meat and red beans. A variety of meats like chicken, pork, fish, or beef are consumed. A salad might also be served. Sofrito, a mix of local herbs, is often used to add flavor to the dishes. Rum, beer, and Mama Juana (prepared by allowing honey, red wine, and rum to soak in a bottle with herbs and tree bark) are the most widely consumed alcoholic beverages. Morir soñando is a traditional non-alcoholic beverage that is made of milk, cane sugar, orange juice, and chopped ice. Coffee, mauby (tree bark based beverage), freshly squeezed fruit juices, etc., are also popular.

4. Literature and the Arts in the Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic has a rich heritage of oral literature in the form of folktales and legends, fairy tales, heroic epics, etc. With the spread of formal education during Spanish colonial rule, written literary works were produced and many of the Dominican writers soon earned global fame. For several decades, the Dominican literature reflected Spanish and other European influences. Today, the country’s writers like Julia Alvarez are creating a unique Dominican style by leaving behind the Spanish influences.

The art scene of Dominica has been influenced by the dominant art movements in Europe for several centuries. Dominica also has its own collection of folk art that is often associated with bright colors and feature natural scenery and village scenes. The folk craft industry of the country is also well-developed. Glazed and unglazed terracotta pottery and terra-cotta figures are famous. Masks are made by carving gourds or calabash. Hammocks and bags are woven by village women. Basket making, handcrafted seashell jewelry production, and palm weaving are some of the other popular crafts from the Dominican Republic.

3. Performance Arts in the Dominican Republic

Merengue, a world-famous musical style, is the biggest contribution of the Dominican Republic to the global music scene. It is a lively and fast-paced dance music played using drums, accordion, chorded instruments, güira, etc. Bachata, another style of music that developed in the country, has also become recently popular. Sacred music called Palo is played throughout the island during religious ceremonies, secular parties, and other species occasions. This musical style has its roots in the Congo region of Africa. Salsa music and Dominican rock are also popular.

A number of festivals including the annual Carnival celebrations are held in the Dominica Republic. Parades, music, street dancing, beauty pageants, etc., are all part of the Carnival. An annual cultural festival is also held in Puerto Plata when dance and music performances, large concerts, art and craft shows, and food counters offering international cuisines keep the crowds busy.

2. Sports in the Dominican Republic

Baseball is this country’s most popular sport. It has the highest number of Major League Baseball players after the US and six baseball league teams. The Dominican Republic has also produced some world-class fighters in the field of boxing including many world champions. Basketball games are also widely viewed by the people of this country. Other important sports played in the Dominican Republic are volleyball, taekwondo, and judo.

1. Life in the Dominican Society

Although the law provides equal rights to men and women in Dominican society, in practice, this equality is yet to be achieved. In families of the upper and middle classes, men usually dominate the households. In the lower classes, however, the families are mostly led by women as adult men or the father usually do not live in the house. Women in the Dominican Republic are today constantly fighting for their rights including access to education and employment and some success has been achieved in this regard. Although more men than women are educated and employed, the number of women in the workforce is steadily rising.

Marital unions in the Dominican Republic are of three different types, church marriages, civil marriages, and consensual unions. While the first two types are more common among the elites and middle classes, consensual unions are prevalent among the poorer sections of society. Household units of the higher classes are usually well-structured and often of the extended type. In the lower classes, households are loosely structured and often dominated by the oldest woman in the household. She lives with her children including married daughters while her husband is usually not present in the house. Men in the lower classes often have relationships with more than one woman and hence, are not attached to any single family.

Education is highly valued in the Dominica Republic. It is free and compulsory to sixth grade. The country has an adult literacy rate of 83% that is considered quite high as compared to neighboring nations.

Politeness and greetings are considered important etiquettes during social interactions. The Dominicans also give great importance to personal appearance and like to dress up well and appropriately for every occasion. Personal space is limited, touching and standing close during conversations is normal. Public transport vehicles tend to be very crowded. Dominicans often communicate using gestures or body language.

By Oishimaya Sen Nag

•culled from www.worldatlas.com

Ethnic Groups Of The Dominican Republic

Most Dominicans have some degree of concurrent European, Native Carinbean, and African ancestries.

The Dominican Republic is one of the countries with the majority of the population being multiracial. Since 1960, the body mandated to collect the statistics refrained from the collection of racial data. Before then, such features were got from observation and not direct interrogation. In the past, it experienced problems with racism in which the whites were considered at the very top of their castes. The multiracial people were in the second place and finally there were the blacks who were disregarded by the rest and often subjected to slavery.

Ethnic Groups Of The Dominican Republic

Mulatto, Mestizo, Or Multiracial (Mixed Ancestry)

They make up about 72% of the entire population. They are the majority in the country. They are descendants from the racial integration between the Blacks and the Whites. They have a total population of over 8 million.

White Dominican (European Ancestry)

They make up 16% of the entire population. The presence of the whites on the island dates back to the founding of the La Isabela which was one of the European settlements in the Americas. The presence of gold and other precious minerals attracted Spaniards who were seeking easy wealth. Their attempts to enslave the natives were unsuccessful as the natives succumbed to diseases. Those that were left did not make good slaves. Later when the mines were depleted, they left the island for other areas such as Mexico and Venezuela. In the 18th century, there was a surge in the white population again as they came and sought to occupy the region through colonization. When the areas attained their independence, there was again a decrease in their numbers, but some remained behind who are the ancestors of the current white Dominicans.

Black Dominican (African Ancestry)

They constitute 11% of the country’s population. They are the descendants of the former slaves who were brought into the country. When slavery was abolished, they remained free citizens who could not go back but settled and got married in their new country. Most of their ancestors had come from West and Central Africa regions.

Arabs, Asians, And Other Groups Of People

They are the minority making up 1% of the whole country’s population. Some of them have been moving to the continent to work on the agricultural lands, mines, and factories among others. Some of them are Jews, Chinese and the Japanese who got into the country to meet the workforce needed in the country in the various sectors of the economy.

Integration In The Country

The diverse individuals in the country have resulted from years of migration and immigration into and away from the country. The white settlers on the continent who both came to get wealth and colonize the natives are directly responsible for the current population of the white people. The mulatto came from the intermarriage and racial integration between the whites and the blacks. The blacks in the country trace their ancestry to the slaves that were brought to the continent. In spite of the challenges earlier on related to interracial problems, discrimination has ceased and the authorities responsible for the statistics never take racial data.

Rank Ethnic Group Share of Population in the Dominican Republic

1 Mulatto, Mestizo, or Multiracial ( Mixed Ancestry) 72%
2 White Dominican ( European Ancestry) 16%
3 Black Dominican ( African Ancestry) 11%
4 Arabs, Asians, and Other Groups of People 1%

By Joyce Chepkemoi

•culled from www.worldatlas.com

Religious Beliefs In Cuba

A Catholic church in Cuba.

While the majority of Cubans are Roman Catholic, the country has a higher prevalence of irreligion than most other Latin American nations.

Cuba has different religious groups reflecting the diversity in the country. Roman Catholic is the dominant religion having been introduced by the Spanish colonialists. After the revolution, the state sought to control the religious activities even barring financial contributions from unrecognized organizations. The country has also been an officially atheistic state since the 1950s. Beginning early 1990s, the state relaxed its control and monitoring of religious activities and eventually allowing greater freedom. Protestants, Jews, Muslims and Pentecostals are the other religious groups found in the island country.

Religious Beliefs In Cuba

Roman Catholic Christianity

Approximately 59% of the total population is Roman Catholic Christians. At the beginning of the popular revolution, the Catholic bishops united to condemn the Communist Party that was governing the country. Even though the party had not disallowed religion, it did not allow the religious people to become its members. The state also widely promoted atheism thus coming into direct conflict with the church. In the years immediately after Castro came to power, the Catholic Church witnessed serious declines, at one point, managing just 7000 baptisms in a year. However, following the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, it relaxed its confrontational tendencies towards the Church. The visit by Pope John Paul II in 1998 was seen as a step forward in encouraging greater religious freedom. At around that time, the country granted more visas to the priests to come to visit the country and engage in religious activities. However, the freedom was short-lived as they reverted to tight control soon after papacy left.

Atheism Or Agnosticism

The country is officially an atheist state and has worked to promote its philosophy among the citizens, albeit without outlawing other religions. The group is significant accounting for about 23% of the total population. The popularity of the revolution encouraged several people who wanted to identify with it to abandon their faiths. However, the number is reducing even with the current leader sometimes attending religious services officiated by global spiritual leaders.

Santeria And Other African-Caribbean Folk Beliefs

Santeria is a blend of some African traditional practices and Christianity. Its adherents make up approximately 12% of the entire Cuban population. It draws from aspects of the Yoruba culture mixed up with Roman Catholicism. It found its way to Cuba through the slaves that got transported from West Africa to work in the various plantations in Cuba and other Western countries. Santeria has allowed the communities to keep their traditional beliefs while appearing to practice Catholicism.

Protestantism And Other Non-Catholic Forms Of Christianity

Baptists, Pentecostals, Seventh-Day Adventists among other groups have also penetrated into the country and made followers due to less interference from the government. They report a greater ability to attract new members, import religious materials, and travel on sacred duties due to reduced government surveillance and interference. For example, the government stopped its scheduling of competing school programs over the weekends and enabled them to make more intensive campaigns.

Impact Of Religion In Cuba

There is increasing growth in religious activities as the Communist Party has lessened its control over the churches. The Cubans, except for the atheists, are devoted and engage in various kinds of rituals and ceremonies to obtain favor from God. The strength of atheism is reducing especially with less campaign by the government to spread it.

Religious Beliefs In Cuba

Rank Belief System Share of Population in Cuba

1 Roman Catholic Christianity 59%
2 Atheism or Agnosticism 23%
3 Santeria and Other African-Caribbean Folk Beliefs 12%
4 Protestantism and Other Non-Catholic Forms of Christianity 5%
Other Beliefs 1%

By Joyce Chepkemoi

•culled from www.worldatlas.com

Major Ethnic Groups In Cuba

Women pose for a photo in Havana, Cuba.

According to the Cuban Census, around two-thirds of Cubans are White, alongside significant minorities of people of predominately African and mixed ancestries.

Cuba is composed of several ethnic groups and is home to people of different nationalities. They regard the Cuban nationalities as their citizenry and not the basis of ethnic identity. Most of them are descendants of the Spaniards and have experienced the influence of different aspects of the Western culture. The early Spanish settlers, the French, Portuguese and the West Africans have impacted the general culture of the country. The census done in 2012 revealed that it had a population of over 11 million. The cities that had the largest numbers include Havana which had over two million people. Other leading cities such as Santa Clara and Guantanamo are the other cities with high population.

Major Ethnic Groups In Cuba

White

They are the majority and constitute about 64% of the entire population. Most of them trace their ancestry to Spain in waves of migration that started in the 18th century to Cuba. A significant number migrated to the US in 1959 following the revolution led by Fidel Castro. They settled mainly in Miami and Florida which is just about 90 miles from their country. Some settled in the US territory of Puerto Rico. They have formed a powerful community which has sought to influence the events in their native country. Within Cuba, they mainly constitute the upper-class elites in the racially divided country.

Black

They represent 9.3% of the total population. They trace their ancestry to particular African countries in the Sub-Saharan region. Many black Cubans are settled in the Eastern parts of the country. Havana has the highest number of the black population. To this day, there are still waves of black immigrants from countries such as Angola, Haiti, and Jamaica. The black population in the country increased drastically following the revolution led by Fidel Castro in 1959 due to the movement of the majority of the white population to the US. African countries such as Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea in the 17th century received an influx of Afro-Cubans who went there to serve as indentured slaves. Although they were free to return to their countries at the end of their service periods, they often chose to remain behind, marrying and integrating into the culture. Racism exists in the country between the races. However, the political situation prohibits the public from discussing such issues openly. The black people are systematically denied access to top positions in their organizations and have to accept meager salaries.

Mulatto

They are individuals with mixed ancestry implying that one of the parents is black while the other is white. They make up 26.6% of the entire population in Cuba. Some of them have their origin from the women who were kept in slavery but sired their children with the white masters. They were then granted relief from slavery to care for their children. Today, they constitute a significant segment of the Cuban population.

Racial Integration In Cuba

The white, black and the mulatto communities in Cuba have integrated well to form one cohesive society. In spite of the challenges that were historically associated with Cuba such as slave trade and brutal dictatorship, they have overcome the challenges to soldier ahead as one people.

Major Ethnic Groups In Cuba

Rank Ethnic Group Share of Cuban Population

1 White ( European Ancestry) 64.1%
2 Mestizo or Mulatto ( Mixed Ancestry) 26.6%
3 Black ( African Ancestry) 9.3%

By Joyce Chepkemoi

•culled from www.worldatlas.com

The Culture Of Cuba

Street musicians play in Havana, Cuba.

The Caribbean nation of Cuba is well-known for its vibrant and rich culture that is a complex mixture of different influences and factors.

The unique and vibrant culture of Cuba is influenced heavily by Latin American, European, African, and indigenous American cultures. The country's culture has also been influenced by its storied history, from its days as a Spanish colony to the Fidel Castro-led Cuban revolution of the 1950s which opened the country up to be heavily influenced by the Soviet Union. Below is a brief outline of the many customs, traditions, and cultural practices that shape the way of Cuban life.

Social Beliefs And Customs

The Cuban Revolution brought about a mighty change in Cuban society. Education and financial independence of women in Cuba was promoted by the Revolution which helped women to attain thriving careers in agriculture, industry, and service related occupations. By 1990, the ratio of men to women in the country’s health services was nearly equal. State-run day care centers were constructed to allow working women to raise their children. Several laws like the 1974 maternity law and the 1975 "Family Code” were passed by the Cuban government to allow women to achieve equality with men in all respects. Although traditionally, men in Cuba expect women to perform all the household chores and raise children despite their working status, the People's Power strived hard to ensure that women are not oppressed at home by their husbands and their families.

Marriages in modern Cuba are mostly by the equal consent of the bride and the groom and co-inhabitation prior to marriage is common. Divorce rates are higher in Cuba now than in the colonial times. Since sex education and availability of contraceptives as well abortion opportunities are easily available in the country, the women of Cuba enjoy great freedom to choose the course of their life. Thus, many households in the country are led by single mothers where the children are brought up by the grandmothers. The government of the nation promotes values of socialism and discourages selfishness and individualism. Like many Latin Americans, Cubans use touch as a form of showing affection and appreciation.

Religion, Festivals, And Holidays

For a considerable length of time, Cubans were not allowed to practice any religion and were persecuted for doing so. The scenario started changing in the 1970s, and eventually Cubans were granted religious freedom but with certain restrictions. In 1992, an amendment was made to the country’s constitution that allowed complete religious freedom in the country. Currently, about 60% of the Cuban population is affiliated to Catholicism. Many cubans practice Santería, a blend of African traditional religion and Christianity that was first practiced by the African slaves brought to Cuba by the Europeans to work on the plantations in the country. These people were often associated with witchcraft and magic and discriminated by the other religious groups in Cuba. Since the religion is practiced mainly by the black population of the country, racist attitudes exist around the religion. Thus, many followers of Santería resorted to a secret practice of the religion to avoid discrimination.

Christian festivals are celebrated in Cuba with great enthusiasm and enjoyment since Christianity is the dominant religion in the country. Secular holidays include January 1 and July 26, both associated with important events in the Cuban Revolution. The Communist holiday of May Day is also a holiday in the country. October 10 is also observed as a holiday as this day marks Cuba’s revolt against Spain.

Music And Dance

Music is an important part of Cuban culture. The music scene in Cuba is influenced by both Spanish and African music. Some of the popular traditional music styles of Cuba include mambo, cha-cha-cha, charanga, danzon, rumba, and a few others. The salsa evolved from a blend of these rhythms. Celia Cruz, a Cuban native, is an internationally famous salsa star and is known as the Queen of Salsa. Cruz began her career in Havana in the later half of the 1940’s. Besides the traditional dance forms, the youth of Cuba enjoy practicing rock and roll. Cuban ballet is a highly popular performing art form in the country. The Cuban National Ballet, established by Alicia Alonso, is recognized worldwide.

Literature And Arts

Cuba started to develop its own literary style in the first half of the 19th century. During this time, slavery, racial mixing, colonialism, etc., were the major focus of the country’s literature. Cirilo Villaverde who wrote the Cecilia Valdés, a landmark novel, is one of the most famous Cuban writers of this period. José Martí, who is considered to be a national Cuban hero, also produced works in the late 19th century. Later, after slavery was abolished, the country’s literature featured themes based on independence and patriotism. The country is also the birthplace of testimonial literature, a literary genre that records the oral history or accounts of real life persons to produce a literary work.

Art in Cuba is a diverse mix of elements of African, South American, European, and American origin. Among the famous Cuban artists are Federico Beltran Masses (a colorist famed for his seductive portrayals of women), Amelia Peláez (famed for mural projects), and Wifredo Lam, a painter (famed for his portrayal of modern primitivism). Alberto Korda is an internationally famed Cuban photographer whose photograph of Che Guevara is one of the most widely recognized images of the world. Street art is also highly popular in Cuba.
Cuba is well known for the handmade cigars produced in the country. These are considered to be among the world’s finest cigars and the country produces nearly 3 million of these cigars a year.

Cuisine

Traditional Cuban cuisine is influenced by Spanish, African, Caribbean, and to a certain extent, by Chinese cuisines. Pork is the chosen meat for a traditional feast and is usually served with rice and beans. Black beans are used to prepare several types of dishes. Rice, when cooked with black beans, is called arroz congri. Common vegetables used in Cuban cuisine include tomatoes, cassava, lettuce, etc. Chicken, beef, pork, and eggs are used to prepare the non-vegetarian dishes. Presently, however, due to the poor economic conditions prevalent in Cuba, large sections of the country’s population cannot afford lavish meals and often depend on food rations. Although Cuban coffee is world famous, most of the coffee grown here is exported while the coffee consumed by Cubans is mostly imported from that grown in Africa.

Clothing

The Cuban dressing style is often described as cool and relaxed with a tradition based on authenticity and simplicity. The Guayabera is the most famous traditional clothing of Cuba that is worn by men as a classic linen or cotton shirt, usually white-colored, with or without embroideries. The shirts are worn on both formal and informal occasions including weddings. Panama hats and linen trousers complement the look of Guayabera- wearing Cuban men. The Guayabera style is now not only popular in Cuba but is also worn by the fashion-conscious men across the world. Guayabera dresses for women are also popular. Women and men in Cuba also wear western-style clothing and a pair of blue jeans is a favorite of most. Low-cut tops and short skirts and vibrant dresses make Cuban women look very pretty. Rumba dresses with extravagant frills and ruffels and traditional African head wraps are occasionally worn by Cuban women.

Sports

Cubans love sports and sports play a very significant role in the social life and identity of the country. Baseball, football, volleyball, boxing, etc., are all popular sports played in the country. Baseball is by far the most popular sport in Cuba. The government of the country promotes sports by selecting young talented sportspersons to attend special boarding schools where they are allowed to play various sports along with their usual studies. The practice is one of the reasons why the country has been a consistently good performer in international games like the Olympics. In 1992, the country earned more medals per capita in the Olympic Games than any other country. The top athletes in the country are worshiped as heroes by the Cubans.

By Oishimaya Sen Nag

•culled from www.worldatlas.com