Guinea-Bissau, officially the Republic of Guinea-Bissau, is a country in West Africa. It is bordered by Senegal to the north, Guinea to the south and east, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west. The country includes a number of archipelagos, with the Bijagós Islands being the most notable. The capital and largest city is Bissau. Historically, the region of Guinea-Bissau was part of several African empires before becoming a Portuguese colony in the 19th century, known as Portuguese Guinea. It declared independence in 1973, which was recognized by Portugal in 1974 following a long and violent liberation struggle led by the African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde (PAIGC). Guinea-Bissau's economy is one of the poorest and most fragile in the world. It relies heavily on agriculture, with cashew nuts being the main crop and primary source of foreign income. The country also has significant potential for fishery development and mineral resources, including bauxite and phosphate, but political instability has hindered economic growth. The population of Guinea-Bissau is ethnically and linguistically diverse, with the Balanta being the largest ethnic group, followed by the Fula, Manjaco, Mandinka, and Papel. Portuguese is the official language, but it is not widely spoken outside of Bissau. Instead, a Creole language known as Kriol is the lingua franca among different ethnic groups. Culturally, Guinea-Bissau is known for its rich oral traditions, music, and dance. The country's music blends Portuguese influences with African rhythms, and traditional ceremonies and festivals are an important part of cultural life. Politically, Guinea-Bissau has experienced significant instability since independence, with numerous coups and periods of political unrest. This instability has had a detrimental impact on the country's development and governance. Geographically, Guinea-Bissau is characterized by its coastal plains, which transition into savanna and forests in the interior. The country's climate is tropical, with a wet and dry season. The coastal region, particularly the Bijagós Archipelago, is noted for its biodiversity and is a significant site for migratory birds. Population of Guinea-Bissau from 2018 to 2020: 2018: Approximately 1.87 million inhabitants. 2019: Approximately 1.92 million inhabitants. 2020: Approximately 1.96 million inhabitants. Capital (Bissau): Population in 2020: About 492,000 inhabitants. Top 10 cities by number of inhabitants in 2020: (Figures are approximate) Bissau: 492,000 Bafatá: 22,521 Gabú: 14,430 Bissorã: 12,688 Bolama: 10,769 Cacheu: 10,490 Bubaque: 9,941 Catió: 9,898 Mansôa: 7,821 Buba: 7,779 Guinea-Bissau is divided into 8 regions and 1 autonomous sector.