Grenada and the Grenadines |
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Grenada became the focus of world attention in 1983, when a split in the governing left-wing party led to the overthrow and execution of the country's charismatic leader, Maurice Bishop, and provided the pretext for a US invasion of the islands. Set against the background of Grenada's hitherto peaceful post-independence history, this event highlights the country's contradictory character. From one angle, Grenada has an "exotic" flavor which appeals especially to Westerners. Known as the "Spice Island", it is the world's second-largest producer of nutmeg and is a significant producer of mace, cinnamon, ginger and cloves. It also boasts beautiful scenery, with picturesque and fertile valleys, rainforests, fast-flowing streams, hot springs, mountain lakes, a tropical climate and excellent beaches. However, despite being one of the fastest growing
economies in the Caribbean, Grenada has also experienced a doubling of
poverty in the 1990s and continues to suffer from a very high level of
unemployment, notwithstanding a large growth in investment and tourism. Furthermore,
the growth in tourism has generated its own problems, in the form of
threats to the rainforest and beach erosion caused by resort projects. In
addition, there is concern that policies designed to encourage offshore
banking, such as strict banking secrecy laws and allowing foreigners to
buy Grenadian passports bearing names which are not necessarily their own,
could make the country a focal point for international organized crime. GRENADA FACTS Population: 89,000 Capital: Saint George's Major language: English (official), French patois Major religion: Christianity Life expectancy: 68 years (men), 73 years (women) Monetary unit: 1
East Caribbean dollar = 100 cents Main exports: Nutmeg, bananas, cocoa, fruit and vegetables, clothing,
mace Average annual income: US
$3,520 Internet domain: .gd Source and for additional information click BBC News - Country Profiles
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