By Jacqueline Thomas
About Chad in Africa
The Republic of Chad is a country in central
Africa. Approximately one-third of the country is in the Sahara Desert. As a result, it is one of Africa's most arid countries. Chad is marred by civil violence and political unrest, making it an undesirable location for pleasure travel.
History
In 1900, France expanded its colonial empire to include modern-day Chad. Chad gained its independence in 1960.
Ethnic Groups
Chad contains more than 200 different ethnic groups. These ethnic groups tend to identify more with their tribe than their country, and this has led to civil wars and a general lack of national cohesion.
Languages Spoken
French and Arabic are the predominant languages in Chad. There are more than 100 dialects still in existence in the country.
Interesting Fact
Some of the world's oldest humanoid remains were found in Chad. Archaelogists discovered a three-million-year-old skull in the northern region of Borkou.
Major Exports
During France's colonization, Chad began growing and harvesting cotton. Chad's main exports are oil, cotton, cattle and gum arabic.
About the Author:
Jacqueline Thomas is an award-winning writer and poet. She studied creative writing at the Alabama School of Fine Arts and has written critically acclaimed pieces for over 20 years. Thomas is published in both traditional and online press, and has articles that reached the Digg Front Page.
Photo Credits:
Afcone, Hdptcar, Mknobil (Flickr)
