Geography and History
Where is Liberia located?
Liberia is located in West Africa and is bordered by Sierra Leone to the northwest, Guinea to the north, and Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast) to the east. It has a coastline along the Atlantic Ocean to the southwest.
What is the capital of Liberia?
Monrovia, named after US President James Monroe.
What year did Liberia gain independence?
1847, becoming the first independent republic in Africa founded by freed slaves.
What is the highest point in Liberia?
Mount Wuteve, reaching 4,763 feet (1,452 meters).
Which river forms the natural border between Liberia and Sierra Leone?
The Mano River.
What is the official language of Liberia?
English, although over 30 indigenous languages are also spoken.
What flag colors represent Liberia's three branches of government?
Red for the legislature, white for the judiciary, and blue for the executive.
What is the nickname for Liberia's national football team?
The Lone Star.
What UNESCO World Heritage Site is located in Liberia?
Mount Nimba Strict Nature Reserve, known for its biodiversity and unique ecosystem.
What devastating civil war took place in Liberia from 1989 to 2003?
The First Liberian Civil War, resulting in hundreds of thousands of casualties and widespread destruction.
Culture and Society
What is the main religion practiced in Liberia?
Christianity, with the majority being Protestant.
What traditional mask used in Liberian ceremonies features large horns and raffia fiber?
The Sanda mask, representing spirits of the forest.
What national dish reflects Liberia's agricultural heritage?
Cassava leaves stew, made with cassava leaves, palm oil, and meat or fish.
What traditional music genre originated in Liberia and later influenced reggae and hip-hop?
Palawa, known for its complex rhythms and social commentary.
What Liberian Nobel Peace Prize laureate advocated for women's rights and disarmament?
Leymah Gbowee, awarded in 2011 for her role in leading a nonviolent protest against the civil war.
What traditional sport involves teams chasing a leather ball stuffed with animal hair?
Kolo, played barefoot on dirt fields and considered a national sport.
What is the official national tree of Liberia?
The palm tree, symbolizing peace, strength, and unity.
What vibrant fabric, often featuring bold colors and geometric patterns, is popular in Liberia?
Lappa cloth, worn to ceremonies and special occasions.
What traditional greeting involves clapping hands and saying "boku"?
The Liberian handshake, a sign of respect and community.
What indigenous Liberian ethnic group is known for their elaborate masks and dances?
The Mano people, famous for their Poro society cultural practices.
Economy and Resources
What is the currency of Liberia?
The Liberian dollar (LRD).
What are some of Liberia's major exports?
Rubber, iron ore, gold, diamonds, and timber.
What natural resource makes Liberia unique in West Africa?
Significant deposits of coltan, a mineral used in electronic devices.
What challenges does Liberia face in terms of economic development?
Infrastructure challenges, poverty, unemployment, and dependence on resource exports.
What agricultural crop is Liberia's main staple food?
Rice, cultivated in flooded paddies throughout the country.
What environmental challenges does Liberia face?
Deforestation, soil erosion, and biodiversity loss due to logging and mining activities.