What does Sierra Leone mean and what is it known for?
Sierra Leone, country of western Africa. The country owes its name to the 15th-century Portuguese explorer Pedro de Sintra, the first European to sight and map Freetown harbour. The original Portuguese name, Serra Lyoa (“Lion Mountains”), referred to the range of hills that surrounds the harbour.
What is a person from Sierra Leone called?
A person from Sierra Leone and/or a citizen of Sierra Leone is called Sierra Leonean.
Why is it called Sierra Leone?
The name Sierra Leone dates back to 1462, when a Portuguese explorer sailed down the coast of West Africa. There seems some dispute whether it was the shape or climatic conditions that influenced Pedro da Cintra to come up with “Sierra Lyoa” meaning Lion Mountains.
What’s the history of the country Sierra Leone?
Sierra Leone country profile. Read more about sharing. Sierra Leone, a country in West Africa, has a special significance in the history of the transatlantic slave trade as the departure point for thousands of west African captives. The capital, Freetown, was founded as a home for repatriated former slaves in 1787.
Why do people in Sierra Leone call it Salone?
Nevertheless, if you ever visit Sierra Leone, don’t get confused when Sierra Leoneans call their country ‘Salone’. This is a common nickname and derivation of Sierra Leone, in the lingua franca, Krio. ‘Salone’ to Sierra Leoneans has become a word synonymous with national identity.
Who is the current president of Sierra Leone?
The government has sought to crack down on the trade. Languages English, Krio (Creole language derived from English) and a range of African languages Julius Maada Bio of the opposition Sierra Leone People’s Party won a run-off election to become president in April 2018.
Which is the largest ethnic group in Sierra Leone?
Sixteen ethnic groups inhabit Sierra Leone, each with its own language and customs. The two largest and most influential are the Temne and Mende. The Temne are predominantly found in the northwest of the country, and the Mende in the southeast.