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Why is Equatorial Guinea called that?

Why is Equatorial Guinea called that?

Formerly the colony of Spanish Guinea, its post-independence name evokes its location near both the Equator and the Gulf of Guinea.

What is the meaning of Equatorial Guinea?

Equatorial Guinea in British English noun. a republic of W Africa, consisting of Río Muni on the mainland and the island of Bioko in the Gulf of Guinea, with four smaller islands: ceded by Portugal to Spain in 1778; gained independence in 1968.

Are Guinea and Equatorial Guinea the same?

Guinea (map) (officially the Republic of Guinea French: République de Guinée), is a country in West Africa. Equatorial Guinea (map), officially the Republic of Equatorial Guinea is a country located in Central Africa.

Why do so many countries have Guinea in their name?

In the 15th century, Portuguese sailors used “Guiné” to describe an area near what is today Senegal, and by the 18th century, Europeans used “Guinea” to refer to much of the West African coastline. The region was a major source of gold, hence the name “guinea” for the British gold coin.

How many countries have Guinea in their name?

Four countries have Guinea in their names: Guinea, Equatorial Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Papua New Guinea. English “Guinea” is derived from the Portuguese word “Guiné” which originated during the mid-15th century.

What language is spoken in Equatorial Guinea?

Spanish
FrenchPortuguese
Equatorial Guinea/Official languages

Who invented the word guinea pig?

Their origination in South America might explain the guinea part of their name. Guinea pigs likely were brought to Europe by Spanish explorers in the 1500s. Around this time, the word guinea was sometimes used to describe things that were far across the sea, so that might be one reason why guinea was used in the name.

What was Guinea before?

Guinea, under the name French Guinea, was a part of French West Africa until it achieved independence in 1958.