Suriname

Europeans first reached Suriname in the 16th century, gradually setting up plantation colonies to cultivate sugar, cocoa, coffee and cotton, which were supported with slave labor imported from Africa. By the late 17th century, the region was dominated by the Dutch, who administered it throught he Society of Suriname. During this period, the Maroon culture, independent tribes of escaped African slaves, emerged in the undeveloped regions of the country, aided by the indigenous Native population. The Maroons ultimately became so powerful that they were granted soverign status and trade rights through treaty with the governing European authorities in the 19th century. Following the abolition of slavery, the plantation economy continued to thrive using contract labor from South Asia.

Suriname was granted limited self-government in 1954, with the Netherlands retaining control of defense and foreign affairs. Full independence was granted on 25 November 1975, after which the nation became known as the Republic of Suriname (Republiek Suriname).