General background: A legacy of unsettled, mostly
non-representative, rule for much of the 20th century
was brought to an end in 1996 when free and open elections
ushered in a new government.
Area comparative: Slightly more than twice the size
of New Hampshire
Climate: Tropical maritime;
little seasonal temperature variation; seasonal variation
in rainfall
Terrain: Rugged highlands
and mountains with fertile valleys interspersed
Population: 8,721,594 (July 2002 est.)
Ethnic groups: White 16%, Black 11%, Mixed 73%
Religions: Roman Catholic 95%
Language: Spanish
Government type: Representative democracy
Capital: Santo Domingo
Legal system: Based on French civil codes
Economic overview: The Dominican economy experienced
dramatic growth over the last decade, even though the
economy was hit hard by Hurricane Georges in 1998. Although
the country has long been viewed primarily as an exporter
of sugar, coffee, and tobacco, in recent years the service
sector has overtaken agriculture as the economy's largest
employer, due to growth in tourism and free trade zones.
The country suffers from marked income inequality; the
poorest half of the population receives less than one-fifth
of GNP, while the richest 10% enjoy 40% of national
income. A US $500 million foreign bond issue in September
2001 will contribute to increased public investment
spending.
Communication/Telephone system: Relatively efficient
system based on island wide microwave radio relay network
Places of interest: The white-sand beaches, impressive
mountain ranges veined with spectacular rivers and waterfalls,
and saltwater lakes teeming with exotic wildlife are
just part of the Dominican Republic's appeal. Steer
a small boat through endless mangrove forests in search
of gentle manatees.
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