By Dwight Malone
El Salvador is the most populous Central American nation, but it is also the region's smallest. It lies on the Pacific Ocean's Gulf of Fonseca. Despite a tropical climate, El Salvador does not have a booming tourism industry, although the government is making an increased effort to promote it as a tourist destination.
Economy
El Salvador has the third largest economy in Central America. Its main exports are sugar, ethanol and processed foods.
Language
The official language of El Salvador is Spanish, and it is spoken by nearly all citizens. English is somewhat popular. It is a required course for schoolchildren.
Religion
About half the citizens of the El Salvador are Roman Catholic, with about 20 percent belonging to the Protestant Church. About 17 percent of citizens claim no religious affiliation.
Natural Disasters
El Salvador's location makes it prone to both earthquakes and volcanic activity. Weather phenomena such as droughts and excessive rain also put strain on the nation.
Currency
The official currency of El Salvador is the U.S. dollar. Until 2001, the colon was the official national currency.
About the Author:
Dwight Malone is a journalist who has worked for various Chicago-area newspapers, including the "Chicago Tribune" and "Naperville Sun." He has been a writer, editor and graphic designer since 2000. Malone studied journalism at Eastern Illinois University.
