Ecuador

File:Ecuadorian national anthem (abridged).ogg

Valdivia (ecuador), figuretta di donna incinta, 2300-2000 ac ca

Jama-Coaque - Figure Seated on a Bench with Hands Held to Mouth - Walters 482862 - Right Side

Ecuador ingapirca inca ruins

Roof deck (Palacio de Pizarro), Plaza de la Independencia (Quito), pic.aa4

Ecuador, officially known as the Republic of Ecuador (República del Ecuador), is a country in South America. It is bordered by Colombia to the north, Peru to the east and south, and the Pacific Ocean to the west. The country also includes the Galápagos Islands in the Pacific, about 1,000 kilometers west of the mainland. The capital city is Quito, while the largest city is Guayaquil.

Geography

Ecuador is characterized by its diverse geography which includes the Andes mountains running north to south, the Amazon Rainforest to the east, and the Pacific Coast to the west. The country is also home to the Galápagos Islands, known for their unique endemic species and significant contribution to Charles Darwin's theory of evolution.

History

Ecuador's history dates back to the pre-Incan cultures, with the Inca Empire expanding into the area in the 15th century. The Spanish conquest began in 1533, leading to centuries of colonial rule. Ecuador gained independence from Spain on May 24, 1822, after the Battle of Pichincha. It was part of Gran Colombia until 1830, when it became an independent republic.

Politics

Ecuador is a democratic republic with a president who serves as both the head of state and government. The country is divided into provinces, each governed by a prefect elected by the people. The National Assembly of Ecuador is the legislative body. Ecuador's political landscape has been marked by periods of instability, but democratic governance has been more consistent in recent years.

Economy

The Ecuadorian economy is diverse, including agriculture, manufacturing, and services. Key exports include bananas, flowers, and shrimp. Ecuador is also a significant exporter of oil. The country adopted the U.S. dollar as its official currency in 2000, which helped stabilize its economy.

Culture

Ecuador's culture is a blend of indigenous, Spanish, and African influences. Traditional music, dance, and festivals play an important role in Ecuadorian life. The country is renowned for its art, particularly the Escuela Quiteña style that emerged during the colonial period. Ecuadorian cuisine varies by region, featuring dishes such as ceviche and hornado.

Biodiversity

Ecuador is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, thanks to its varied ecosystems. The government has established numerous national parks and reserves to protect its natural heritage. The Galápagos Islands and the Yasuní National Park are particularly notable for their unique species and ecosystems.

Challenges

Despite its natural beauty and resources, Ecuador faces several challenges, including political instability, economic vulnerabilities, and environmental threats. Deforestation, oil extraction, and climate change pose significant risks to its diverse ecosystems.

See also

• List of cities in Ecuador
• Ecuadorian cuisine
• Ecuadorian literature