The Republic of Cape Verde (pronounced /ˌkeɪp ˈvɜ:rd/ ( listen); Portuguese: Cabo Verde, pronounced [ˈkabu ˈveɾdɨ]) is an island country, spanning an archipelago located in the Macaronesia ecoregion of the North Atlantic Ocean, off the western coast of Africa, opposite Mauritania and Senegal.
It is slightly more than 4,000 km² in area with an estimated population of over 500,000. The capital of Cape Verde is Praia. The previously uninhabited islands were discovered and colonized by the Portuguese in the 15th century, and attained independence from Portugal in 1975.
As of 2007, Cape Verde is classified as a developing country after being promoted from Least Developed Countries status. About 20% of the population lives on less than $1.25 (U.S.) a day.
West African island nation. Cape Verde Islands in the North Atlantic. 4033 square km area. Population 380,000 (1991). The capital Praia. Tropical arid climate. Fishery-based farming economy. Agricultural production of coffee, cocoa and peanuts. Main export fishery products.
Leeward Islands