International BusinessChapter 8: Business Ownership and EntrepreneurshipWorld Market Passport
The Environment Venezuela is located on the northern Caribbean coast of South America, with its borders meeting Brazil to the south, Guyana to the east, and Columbia to the west. It is home to a wide variety of landscapes, from the towering Andes mountains to its extensive plains and balmy beaches. The world's largest waterfall, Angel Falls, can be found in Venezuela, as well as vast forests, which in recent years have been depleted through logging and cultivation. Known as one of the 17 mega-diverse countries of the world, it has numerous animal and plant species, and one of the most endangered environments. History Originally inhabited by the indigenous Anu people, Venezuela was discovered by a Spanish naval expedition in 1499 and colonized by Spain in 1522. In fact, Spain's first permanent settlement was in what is now known as the city of Cumana. After several unsuccessful uprisings, the country declared its independence from Spain in 1811 and became part of the Republic of Gran Columbia until 1830, when it declared itself a sovereign republic. Much of the 19th and 20th centuries were characterized by political instability and struggle until 1958, when the demise of authoritarian rule led to democratic civilian rule. Now a federal republic, Venezuela is a member of the South American Community of Nations. Culture and People With over 26.7 million people living in Venezuela, it has the 43rd highest population in the world. The majority of residents are mestizo, or mixed race, with Caucasians, blacks, native Indians, and Asians making up the minorities. Waves of immigrants from all over the world have led to a combination of heritages, however its official language remains Spanish. The country's art and culture represent its vast history, which has been dominated by religious motives, as well as heroic representations. Its literature has been a force in Spanish culture, with many famous poets, philosophers, and writers emerging through the years. Venezuela has also turned out many world-class baseball and soccer players. Click to hear the music of Venezuela.
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