Sao Tome and Principe

The two islands of Sao Tome and Principe, located off the western coast of Africa, have a rich history
that is rooted in Portuguese colonial rule. This small nation covers an area of just 965 square kilometers
and has a population of just over 200,000 people. Despite its small size, this island nation has a vibrant
culture and history that is worth exploring.
Sao Tome and Principe were discovered by Portuguese explorers in the 15th century and colonized by
Portugal in the 16th century. From the 1600s through the 1800s, sugarcane plantations were established
on both islands with slaves from West Africa working them. In 1975, Sao Tome became independent
from Portugal thanks to a movement led by Manuel Pinto da Costa who was elected president following
independence. In 1991, Miguel Trovoada was elected president in what was the first democratic
election for the country. He served two terms until 2001 when Fradique de Menezes was elected
president following a second democratic election.
The national flag of Sao Tome and Principe consists of three horizontal stripes—green at the top
followed by yellow in the center with red at the bottom—with two stars in the middle stripe
representing both islands of Sao Tome & Principe as one nation. The colors represent hope (green),
justice (yellow), and love (red) while also having strong ties to African Pan-Africanism which places green
at the top signifying hope while red is placed on bottom signifying blood shed during slavery on both
islands.
Today, Sao Tome & Principe is an emerging economy with agriculture being its main industry along with
light manufacturing such as soap making and textiles; however tourism is becoming increasingly popular
due to its stunning natural beauty including untouched rainforests and amazing beaches. The capital city
of São Tomé also boasts a unique blend of colonial architecture alongside modern buildings as well as
beautiful parks like Agostinho Neto Park which houses statues honoring local heroes who fought for
independence from Portugal in 1975.
Sao Tomé & Principe is an interesting country full of history that dates back centuries ago when it was
first explored by Portuguese explorers all those years ago before finally becoming independent almost
40 years ago thanks to Manuel Pinto da Costa’s leadership skills leading up to their first democratic
elections held in 1991 under President Miguel Trovoada’s reign followed by President Fradique de
Menezes’ terms lasting until 2001 until now under their current president Evaristo Carvalho who has
been in office since 2016 after winning his second term re-election earlier this year in July 2020!
Additionally they have an incredibly symbolic flag representing hope, justice & love; plus they have
beautiful wildlife parks & stunning beaches making them a great destination for tourists seeking a
unique African experience!