Difference between revisions of "Mauritius" - New World Encyclopedia

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'''VICKI, THIS IS A VERY OLD IMPORT. LET'S DELETE THE DATA AND IMPORT CURRENT WIKIPEDIA ARTICLE.  MARY'''
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{{Infobox Country or territory
{| border=1 align=right cellpadding=4 cellspacing=0 width=300 style="margin: 0 0 1em 1em; background: #f9f9f9; border: 1px #aaaaaa solid; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 95%;"
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|native_name              = Republic of Mauritius<!—<br/>''République de Maurice''>
|+<big><big>'''R&eacute;publique de Maurice'''</big></big>
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|common_name              = Mauritius
|-
+
|image_flag              = Flag of Mauritius.svg
| style="background:#efefef;" align="center" colspan=2 |
+
|image_coat              = Coa Mauritius-large.svg
{| border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0"
+
|image_map                = LocationMauritius.png
| align="center" width="140px" | [[Image:Mauritius flag large.png|125px|]]
+
|national_motto          = ''"Stella Clavisque Maris Indici"''{{spaces|2}}<small>(Latin)<br/>"Star and Key of the Indian Ocean"</small>
| align="center" width="140px" rowspan="2" height="110px" | [[Image:Mauritius_coa.png|125px]]
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|national_anthem          = ''Motherland''
|-
+
|official_languages      = English<sup>1</sup>
| align="center" width="140px" | Flag of Mauritius
+
|main_languages          = Creole, Bhojpuri, French
|-
+
|capital                  = Port Louis
|}
+
|latd=20 |latm=10 |latNS=S |longd=57 |longm=31 |longEW=E
|-
+
|largest_city            = capital
| align=center style="vertical-align: top;" colspan=2 | <small> National motto (Latin): ''Stella Clavisque Maris Indici''<br>(''Star and Key of the Indian Ocean'')
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|government_type          = Republic
|-
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|leader_title1            = President
| align=center colspan=2 style="background: #ffffff;" | [[image:LocationMauritius.png]]
+
|leader_name1            = Anerood Jugnauth
|-
+
|leader_title2            = Prime Minister
| '''Official language'''
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|leader_name2            = Navinchandra Ramgoolam
| English
+
|sovereignty_type        = Independence
|-
+
|sovereignty_note        = from the United Kingdom
| '''Capital'''
+
|established_event1      = Date
| Port Louis
+
|established_date1        = March 12 1968
|-
+
|established_event2      = Republic
| '''President'''
+
|established_date2        = March 12 1992
| Sir Anerood Jugnauth
+
|area_rank                = 179th
|-
+
|area_magnitude          = 1 E9
| '''Prime Minister'''
+
|area                    = 2,040
| Navinchandra Ramgoolam
+
|areami²                  = 787 <!--Do not remove per WP:MOSNUM-->
|-
+
|percent_water            = 0.05
| '''Area'''<br>&nbsp;- Total <br>&nbsp;- % water
+
|population_estimate      = 1,219,220<sup>2</sup>
| [[Ranked 168th]] <br> 1,860 km&sup2; <br> 0.05%
+
|population_estimate_rank = 153rd
|-
+
|population_estimate_year = 2006
| '''Population'''<br>&nbsp;- Total (2002)<br>&nbsp;- Density
+
|population_census        =
| [[Ranked 149th]]<br> 1,189,825<br> 588/km&sup2;
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|population_census_year  =
|-
+
|population_density      = 616
| '''Independence'''
+
|population_densitymi²    = 1,564 <!--Do not remove per WP:MOSNUM—>
| 1968
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|population_density_rank  = 17th
|-
+
|GDP_PPP                  = $16.0 billion <!--IMF-->
| '''Currency'''
+
|GDP_PPP_rank            = 119th
| Mauritian Rupee
+
|GDP_PPP_year            = 2006
|-
+
|GDP_PPP_per_capita      = $13,703
| '''Time zone'''
+
|GDP_PPP_per_capita_rank  = 51st
| Universal Time +4
+
|HDI                      = {{increase}} 0.800
|-
+
|HDI_rank                = 63rd
| '''National anthem'''
+
|HDI_year                = 2004
| ''Motherland''
+
|HDI_category            = <font color="#009900">high</font>
|-
+
|currency                = Mauritian rupee
| '''Internet TLD'''
+
|currency_code            = MUR
| .mu
+
|country_code            =
|-
+
|time_zone                = MUT
| '''Country Calling Code'''
+
|utc_offset              = +4
| 230
+
|time_zone_DST            = not observed
|}
+
|utc_offset_DST          = +4
The '''Republic of Mauritius''' is an island nation in the southwest [[Indian Ocean]], about 900 km east of [[Madagascar]]. In addition to the island of Mauritius, the republic includes the islands of [[Cargados Carajos|St. Brandon]] and [[Rodrigues]] and the [[Agalega Islands]]. Mauritius is part of the [[Mascarene Islands]], with the French island of [[R&eacute;union]] 200 km to the southwest.
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|cctld                    = .mu
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|calling_code            = 230
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|footnote1                =  <ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.gov.mu/portal/site/abtmtius/menuitem.42f3149f267522984d57241079b521ca/|title=Republic of Mauritius, Government Portal (Mauritius)}}</ref><ref>[http://www.gov.mu/portal/site/AssemblySite/menuitem.ee3d58b2c32c60451251701065c521ca/]</ref>
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|footnote2                = The population estimate is only for the island of Mauritius. For the whole republic, as at 31 December 2006, it is 1,256,739<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gov.mu/portal/goc/cso/ei617/toc.htm |title=Population and Vital Statistics, Republic of Mauritius, Year 2006 - Highlights |publisher=Central Statistics Office (Mauritius)|accessdate=2007-03-18 |date=March 2007}}</ref>
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|}}'''Mauritius''', officially the '''Republic of Mauritius''', is an island nation off the coast of Africa in the southwest [[Indian Ocean]], about 900 kilometers<!--spelled out per WP:MOSNUM—> (560&nbsp;[[Mile|mi]]) east of [[Madagascar]]. In addition to the island of Mauritius, the republic includes the islands of St. Brandon, Rodrigues and the Agalega Islands. Mauritius is part of the Mascarene Islands, with the [[France|French]] island of [[Réunion]] 200&nbsp;km (125&nbsp;mi) to the southwest and the island of Rodrigues 570&nbsp;km to the east-northeast.  
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==History==
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The first record of Mauritius comes from [[Arab]] and [[Malays (ethnic group)|Malay]] sailors as early as the tenth century. [[Portugal|Portuguese]] sailors first visited it in 1505, and established a visiting base leaving the island uninhabited. Three ships of the eight [[Netherlands|Dutch]] ''Second Fleet'' that were sent to the [[Spice Islands]] were blown off course during a cyclone and landed on the island in 1598, naming it in honor of Prince Maurice of Nassau, the Stadtholder of the Netherlands.<ref>{{cite book |last=Mutch |first=T. D. |authorlink= |title=The First Discovery of Australia |publisher=[[Project Gutenberg of Australia]] |date=1942 |location=Sydney |pages=55 |url=http://gutenberg.net.au/ebooks06/0600631h.html}}, p.13.</ref>  In 1638, the Dutch established the first permanent settlement. Because of tough climatic conditions, including cyclones and the deterioration of the settlement, the Dutch abandoned the island some decades later. The [[France|French]] who controlled the neighboring Bourbon island (now Réunion) moved in to seize Mauritius in 1715 and later named it ''Ile de France'' (Isle of France). The French got the economy well underway with a flourishing sugar production industry. One of the great initiators of this economic leap was St-Malo born governor François Mahé de Labourdonnais. The French however harbored the outlawed "corsairs" (mercenary pirates) who regulalry sunk [[gold]], precious [[gems]], [[silk]] and spice laden British vessels on their way to [[United Kingdom|Britain]] from [[India]]. The British set to gain military control of the island. Despite winning the famous Battle of Grand Port, Napoleon's only naval win over the British, the French were defeated by the British in the north of the island, at Cap Malheureux (Hapless Cape) three months later, and thus lost possession to the British in 1810. The latter reverted the island to its former name.
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In 1965, the United Kingdom split the Chagos Archipelago from Mauritius to create the British Indian Ocean Territory in order to use the strategic islands for defense purposes in co-operation with the [[United States]]. Although the Government of Mauritius agreed to the move at the time, subsequent administrations have laid claim to the islands stating that the divestment was illegal under international law - a claim recognised by the [[United Nations]].
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[[Image:Port Louis Mauritius Theatre.jpg|thumb|left|A postcard c.1900-1910 showing the Port Louis theater.]]
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Mauritius attained independence in 1968 and the country became a republic within the Commonwealth in 1992. Mauritius has been a stable democracy with regular free elections and a positive human rights record,<ref>[http://www.unis.unvienna.org/unis/pressrels/2005/hrct660.html Human Rights Committee Takes Up Report of Mauritius: Experts Praise Creation of National Human Rights Commission but Raise Concerns Regarding Anti-Terrorism Law, 18 March 2005] - retrieved 8 January 2007</ref> and has attracted considerable foreign investment earning one of [[Africa]]'s highest per capita incomes.
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Mauritius aims to become the business hub of the Indian Ocean. New business opportunities in banking and the technology sector are being actively sought.
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Through the celebration of the Bicentenary of the Battle of Grand Port in 2010, Mauritius is aiming at rebuilding its maritime heritage and reclaiming its title of the Star & the Key of the Indian Ocean.
  
== History ==
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==Politics==  
  
The island was discovered by the Portuguese in 1505, and was uninhabited until colonisation by the Dutch in 1638, who named the island in honour of Prince [[Maurice of Nassau]]. The French controlled the island during the 18th century and renamed it ''Ile de France''. The island was taken over by the British in 1810 and reverted to its former name.
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Mauritius is a parliamentary democracy based on the Westminsterian model of the United Kingdom.<ref>http://www.intnet.mu/iels/gov_mau.htm</ref> The head of state of Mauritius is the President, who is elected for a five-year term by the National Assembly, the unicameral Mauritian parliament. The National Assembly consists of 62 members elected directly by popular vote, with between four and eight further members appointed from "best losers" election candidates to represent ethnic minorities, if under represented after the elections. The government is headed by the prime minister and a council of ministers.
  
Independence was attained in 1968, with the country becoming a republic within the British Commonwealth in 1992. Mauritius has been a stable democracy with regular free elections and a positive human rights record, and has attracted considerable foreign investment earning one of Africa's highest per capita incomes.
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The Government is elected on a five-year basis. The most recent general elections took place on July 3, 2005, in all the 20 mainland constituencies, as well as the constituency covering the island of Rodrigues.
  
== Politics ==
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Historically, elections have always had a tendency to adhere to a system comprising two major coalitions of parties.
  
The head of state of Mauritius is the president, who is elected for a five-year term by the National Assembly, the unicameral Mauritian parliament. The National Assembly consists of 62 members elected directly by popular vote, with between 4 and 8 further members appointed from "best losers" election candidates to represent ethnic minorities, depending on the results of the election. The government is headed by the prime minister and a council of ministers.
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In international affairs, Mauritius is part of the Indian Ocean Commission, the [[Southern African Development Community]] and the Commonwealth of Nations and La Francophonie (French speaking countries) among others.
  
Historically, elections have always adhered to a two-party system in Mauritius and this has also been the case this time, with the outgoing ''MSM/MMM/PMSD'' coalition against the PTr-led ''Alliance Sociale'' which includes PMXD, Les Verts, MR, MSD and MMSM.  
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In 2006, Mauritius asked to be an observing member of the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP) in order to become closer to those countries.<ref> {{cite web|url=http://www.macauhub.com.mo/en/news.php?ID=1671 |title=Mauritius and Equatorial Guinea granted associated observer status in CPLP |accessdate=2007-03-05 |date=2006-07-17 |publisher=macauhub.com }}</ref>
  
The ''Alliance Sociale'' coalition won 38 seats and will form the next government with PTr leader Navinchandra Ramgoolam as Prime Minister. The MSM/MMM/PMSD coalition won 22 seats and will form the opposition. The 2 remaining seats for Rodrigues were won by OPR candidates. According to the Constitution, an additional eight seats were allocated to "best losers" to guarantee equitable representation of all ethnic groups.  This brought the total representation to 42 ''Alliance Sociale'', 24 MSM/MMM/PMSD, and 4 OPR.
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==Districts and dependencies==
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[[Image:Mauritius districts numbered.png|Thumb|right|250px|Districts of Mauritius]]
  
== Dependencies ==
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The island of Mauritius itself is divided into nine [[district]]s:
  
[[Rodrigues]], which used to be Mauritius's 10th district is now autonomous.
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Dependencies of Mauritius:
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*Rodrigues, an island 560 kilometers northeast of Mauritius, which attained limited autonomy in October 2002.<ref> {{cite web|url=http://www.mauritiuspost.mu/museum/fdc/other.php?id=91 |title=First Day Cover: Rodrigues Regional Assembly |accessdate=2007-06-27 |date=2004-10-12 |publisher=The Mauritius Post Ltd }}</ref><ref> {{cite web|url=http://pmo.gov.mu/portal/site/Mainhomepage/menuitem.a42b24128104d9845dabddd154508a0c/?content_id=5d96d575d1a88010VgnVCM100000ca6a12acRCRD |title=Rodrigues: achievements after three years of autonomy |accessdate=2007-06-27 |date=2005-10-25 |publisher=Government of Mauritius }}</ref> Had the status of the 10th administrative district of Mauritius before autonomy was attained.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/2833.htm#political |title=Facts about the land, people, history, government, political conditions, economy, foreign relations of Mauritius. - Government and political conditions |accessdate=2007-06-22 |date=June 2007 |work=Bureau of African Affairs |publisher=U.S Department of State }}</ref>
  
The latter, together with [[Agalega]] and [[Cargados Carajos Shoals]] (aka [[Saint Brandon Rocks]]) are dependencies of Mauritius.
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*Agalega, two small islands about 933 kilometers (580&nbsp;mi) north of Mauritius.
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*Cargados Carajos Shoals, also known as the Saint Brandon islands, about 402 kilometers (250&nbsp;mi) north of Mauritius.  
  
Note: Mauritius also claims the French-owned [[Tromelin Island]] and the [[Chagos Archipelago]] ([[British Indian Ocean Territory]]).
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Other Mauritian territories:
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* Soudan Banks (including East Soudan Bank)
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* Nazareth Bank
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* Saya de Malha Bank
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* Hawkins Bank
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Mauritius also claims the following islands{{fact|date=July 2007}}:
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* In French possession: Tromelin Island, Île Saint-Paul, Île Amsterdam
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* In Seychellois possession: Île Platte and Coëtivy Island
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* In British possession: Chagos Archipelago
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==Geography==
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{{main|Geography of Mauritius}}
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[[Image:Mauritius-CIA WFB Map.png|thumb|right|200px|Map of Mauritius]]
  
A number of shallow banks also belong to Mauritius, such as:
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Together with [[Réunion]] and [[Rodrigues (island)|Rodrigues]], Mauritius is part of the [[Mascarene Islands]]. This [[archipelago]] was formed in a series of undersea [[volcano|volcanic]] eruptions, as the [[African plate]] drifted over the [[Réunion hotspot]]. Mauritius and Rodrigues were formed 8-10 million years ago. They are no longer volcanically active, and the hotspot now rests under Réunion. The island of Mauritius itself is formed around a central plateau, with its highest peak in the southwest, [[Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire]] at 828 metres (2,717&nbsp;[[foot (unit of length)|ft]]). Around the plateau, the original crater can still be distinguished from several mountains.
* [[Soudan Banks]] (including East Soudan Bank)
 
* [[Nazareth Bank]]
 
Note: Mauritius also claims the [[Saya de Malha Bank]] as part of its exclusive economic zone as it falls into Mauritian Territorial Waters.
 
  
== Geography ==
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[[Image:Satellite image of Mauritius in February 2003.jpg|thumb|left|Satellite image of Mauritius, February 2003.]]
[[Image:Mp-map.gif|thumb|300px|Map of Mauritius]]
 
  
Together with [[R&eacute;union]] and Rodrigues, Mauritius is part of the [[Mascarene Islands]]. This [[archipelago]] was formed in a series of undersea volcanic eruptions, as the [[African plate]] drifted over the [[Réunion hotspot]]. Mauritius and Rodrigues were formed 8-10 million years ago. They are no longer volcanically active, and the hotspot now rests under R&eacute;union. The island of Mauritius itself is formed around a central plateau, with its highest peak in the southwest, [[Piton de la Riviere Noire]] at 828 m. Around the plateau, the original crater can still be distinguished from several mountains.
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The local [[climate]] is tropical, modified by southeast trade winds; there is a warm, dry winter from May to November and a hot, wet, and humid summer from November to May. [[Cyclones]] affect the country during November-April.
  
The local climate is tropical, modified by southeast trade winds; there is a warm, dry winter from May to November and a hot, wet, and humid summer from November to May. Cyclones affect the country during November-April.
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The island's capital and largest city is [[Port Louis, Mauritius|Port Louis]], in the northwest. Other important towns are [[Curepipe]], [[Vacoas]], [[Phoenix, Mauritius|Phoenix]], [[Quatre Bornes]], [[Rose-Hill]] and [[Beau-Bassin]].
  
The island's capital and largest city is [[Port Louis], in the northwest.
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The island is well known for its exceptional natural beauty; "You gather the idea that Mauritius was made first and then heaven, and that heaven was copied after Mauritius," as [[Mark Twain]] noted in ''[[Following the Equator]]''.
  
The island is well known for its exceptional natural beauty; "First God made Mauritius, then he copied it and made Paradise" and "God modeled heaven on Mauritius" are quotes attributed variously to [[Rudyard Kipling]] and [[Mark Twain]].
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==Economy==
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[[Image:Port Louis Skyline.JPG|thumb|300px|Skyline of [[Port Louis]], the capital of Mauritius.]]
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{{main|Economy of Mauritius}}
  
== Economy ==
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Since independence in 1968, Mauritius has developed from a low-income, [[agriculture|agriculturally]] based economy to a middle income diversified economy with growing industrial, financial, and [[tourism|tourist]] sectors. For most of the period, annual growth has been of the order of 5% to 6%. This has been reflected in increased life expectancy, lowered infant mortality and a much improved [[infrastructure]].
  
Since independence in 1968, Mauritius has developed from a low-income, agriculturally based economy to a middle-income diversified economy with growing industrial, financial, and tourist sectors. For most of the period, annual growth has been of the order of 5%-6%. This remarkable achievement has been reflected in increased life expectancy, lowered infant mortality and a much improved infrastructure.
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Estimated at $16.28 billion for 2005, Mauritius has the 2nd highest GDP per capita in Africa. It is only exceeded by [[Equatorial Guinea]], which derives most of its revenue from oil exports. Mauritius has a mature economy with a great deal of wealth distribution among its citizens{{Fact|date=February 2007}}. The economy is mainly dependent on sugarcane plantations, tourism, textiles, and services, but other sectors are rapidly developing as well.
  
[[Sugar cane]] is grown on about 90% of the cultivated land area and accounts for 25% of export earnings. However, a record-setting drought severely damaged the sugar crop in 1999. The government's development strategy centres on foreign investment. Mauritius has attracted more than 9,000 offshore entities; many aimed at commerce in [[India]] and [[South Africa]] while investment in the banking sector alone has reached over USD 1 billion. Economic performance during the period from 2000 through 2004 combined strong economic growth with unemployment at 7.6% in December 2004.
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[[Sugar cane]] is grown on about 90% of the cultivated land area and accounts for 25% of export earnings. However, a record-setting drought severely damaged the sugar crop in 1999. The government's development strategy centres on foreign investment. Mauritius has attracted more than 9,000 offshore entities; many aimed at commerce in [[India]] and [[South Africa]] while investment in the [[banking]] sector alone has reached over $1 billion. Economic performance during the period from 2000 through 2004 combined strong economic growth with unemployment at 7.6% in December 2004. [[France]] is the country's biggest trading partner, and has close ties with the country. They also provide technical assistance in various forms.
  
On the 4th of April 2005 during his speech, Hon. Pravind Jugnauth, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance and Economic Development announced that Mauritius will become a duty-free island and that will take about 4 years. Duty has been decreased (and for many products completely eliminated) for more than 1850 products including clothing, food, jewellery, photographic equipment, audio visual equipment, lighting equipment etc.
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Mauritius is gearing towards becoming a [[duty-free]] island within the coming four years. Duty has been decreased (and for many products completely eliminated) for more than 1850 products including clothing, food, jewelry, photographic equipment, audio visual equipment and lighting equipment.
  
 
The main motivations are (1) Attract more tourists going to [[Singapore]] and [[Dubai]], and, (2) Give all Mauritians easier access to quality products at affordable prices.
 
The main motivations are (1) Attract more tourists going to [[Singapore]] and [[Dubai]], and, (2) Give all Mauritians easier access to quality products at affordable prices.
  
A plan by ADB Networks calls for Mauritius to become the first nation to have coast-to-coast [[Wi-Fi|wireless internet]] access. The wireless "hot spot" currently covers about 60% of the island and is accessible by about 70% of its population. By year's end antennas should provide access to 90% of the island.
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A plan by ADB Networks calls for Mauritius to become the first nation to have coast-to-coast [[Wi-Fi|wireless internet]] access. The wireless hot spot currently covers about 60% of the island and is accessible by about 70% of its population. By the end of 2006, antennas should have provided access to 90% of the island, however, this has not yet happened.
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Its biggest trading partners are France and the UK.
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Mauritius ranks first in respect of [[FDI]] inflows to India amongst all the countries with cumulative inflows amounting to US $ 10.98 billion. Top sectors attracting FDI inflows from Mauritius (from January 2000 to December, 2005) are electrical equipment, telecommunications, fuels, cement and gypsum products and services sector (financial and non-financial).<ref>{{cite news |first= |last= |coauthors= |title=Infrastructure:India -Mauritius To Work For Greater FDI Inflow |date=2006-04-18 |publisher=Indlaw Communications Pvt. Limited. (ICPL). |url=http://www.indlawnews.com/EC1844380C5E7E269C1E2116696BA40E |work = |pages = |accessdate = 2007-05-12 |language = }}</ref>
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As Mauritius opens to the world, aiming to transform itself into a competitive global business platform, the national investment promotion agency, the Board of Investment (BOI) has put at the service of the international business community a range of services, free of charge, to attract international investment and talents in the country.<ref name='boi'> {{cite web |url=http://www.investmauritius.com/ |title=Mauritius- Opens to the World :The Investment Promotion Agency of the Government of Mauritius |accessdate=2007-05-12 |date=2006 |publisher=Board of Investment }}</ref>
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==Demographics==
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{{main|Demographics of Mauritius}}
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Mauritian society is highly multi-ethnic. Most of the island residents are the descendants of people from the [[Indian subcontinent]]. Mauritius also has large immigrant populations from continental [[Africa]], [[Madagascar]], [[France]], [[Great Britain]], and [[China]], among other places.
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The official language of Mauritius is [[English language|English]]. All government administrative documents are therefore drawn up in English. Together with English, French is also used in instruction in the educational system. [[French language|French]], however, predominates in the media, both broadcast and printed as well as with business and in corporate affairs . [[Mauritian Creole]], which is derived from French with influences from the other dialects, is widely spoken on the island and is considered the native tongue of the country. Creole was the language used by the African slaves to communicate with their French masters. Today, Creole is used in everyday life by all Mauritians. [[Hindi language|Hindi]] is also widely spoken, though restricted to the Indian community. Several other languages, including [[Arabic language|Arabic]], [[Urdu]], [[Tamil language|Tamil]], [[Telugu language|Telugu]], [[Marathi]], [[Bhojpuri]], [[Gujarati language|Gujarati]], [[Punjabi]] and dialects of [[Chinese (linguistics)|Chinese]], such as [[Cantonese (linguistics)|Cantonese]], [[Hakka]] and [[Mandarin (linguistics)|Mandarin]], are also spoken. The [[Languages of India|Indian languages]] are spoken by descendants of the labourers brought from [[British India]] during the British rule.
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The [[Indo-Mauritian]]s (when the ethnic groups are combined) form approximately 70% of the total population, the remaining 30% being mostly Creoles. There are approximately 30,000 Mauritians of Chinese descent, from the Hakka, Mandarin, and Cantonese language groups. More than 90% of the Sino-Mauritian community are Roman Catholic; the remainder are largely Buddhist.
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Small groups of foreign students from Europe or the Indian Ocean region are also present. The recent years have seen a steady flow of foreign workers, mostly Chinese women, into the textile industry, Indian workers in the construction industry and Taiwanese men in the harbour-related activities. Immigration policy does not provoke much debate in Mauritius, and the relative economic stability of the island is attracting more foreign workers.
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The majority of Mauritians practice [[Hinduism]] (52%). [[Roman Catholic]] 28%, [[Islam]] (16.6%), [[Buddhism]] (2.5%), Adventist Protestants (2%), [[Sikhism]] (0.3%) and other religions are also followed.<ref>http://www.gesource.ac.uk/worldguide/html/956_people.html</ref>
  
== Demographics ==
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==Culture==
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[[Image:Maurice-plage.jpg|thumb|Mauritian beach.]]
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{{main|Culture of Mauritius}}
  
The two official languages of Mauritius are English and French, of which French is the still the more widely spoken despite France having lost its colonial dominion over the island nearly 200 years ago. A French-derived [[Mauritian Creole|Creole language]], with influence from English and Portuguese, is widely spoken on the island and is considered the [[lingua franca]] of the country. Several Asian languages, including numerous Indian languages such as [[Urdu]], [[Hindi]], [[Tamil language|Tamil]], [[Telugu]], [[Marathi]], [[Bhojpuri]] and [[Gujarati language|Gujarati]] are also spoken by a minority of Mauritians.
+
The [[cuisine]] of Mauritius is a blend of [[Indian Cuisine]], [[Creole cuisine|Creole]], [[Chinese cuisine|Chinese]] and [[European cuisine|European]]. It is not uncommon for a combination of cuisines to form part of the same meal. The "cari poule" or chicken curry, for example, is a very popular dish. The "mine-frit" (Chinese fried noodles) and "niouk nien" (dumplings) are loved by all and readily bought by the Mauritian community either in restaurants or on the sidewalks of main streets. 'Alouda' (a milk-based drink with basil seeds) has become a typical Mauritian drink and the 'dholl puri' can be considered a favourite with all communities.
  
The latter South Asian languages are spoken by descendants of the laborers brought from [[India]] during the British rule. These Indo-Mauritians form approximately 60% of the total population, while the rest of the population are of either African, French, Chinese, or mixed descent. There are approximately 30,000 Mauritians of Chinese descent, from [[Hakka]], Mandarin and [[Cantonese (linguistics)|Cantonese]] language groups.
+
The historical evolution of the rum industry in Mauritius is no less enriching than that of the Caribbean or that of South America.
  
Of all religiously affiliated Mauritians, Hindus constitute 50%, while the remainder is composed mostly of Christians (28%) and Muslims (17%).
+
Sugarcane was first introduced on the island when the Dutch colonised it in 1638.  Even then, the propensity of making rum out of sugarcane was strongly recognised.  Sugarcane was mainly cultivated for the production of “arrack,” a precursor to rum.  Only much later, almost 60 years after, that the first proper sugar was produced.  However, it was during the French and English administration, that sugar production was fully exploited.  This highly contributed to the economical development of the island. It was Mr. Pierre Charles François Harel who initially proposed the concept of local distillation of rum in Mauritius, in 1850.  In part due to his efforts, Mauritius today houses three distilleries (Grays, Medine & St Aubin) and is in the process of opening another three.{{Fact|date=June 2007}}
  
== Culture ==
+
The ''sega'' is the local folklore music. Sega has African roots, and the music is produced using goat-skin percussion instruments called ''ravane'' and metallic clicks using metal ''triangles''. The song usually describes the miseries of slavery, and has been adapted nowadays as social satires to voice out inequalities as felt by the blacks. The rhythm, however, remains very festive and while the men are at the instruments, the Creole women gyrate in large fluid and revealing skirts with bright colours. Shows are regularly hosted in the coastal hotels.
[[Image:Satellite image of Mauritius in February 2003.jpg|thumb|Satellite map of Mauritius]]
 
The mixed colonial past of Mauritius is reflected in its culture. For example, the cuisine of Mauritius is a blend of European, French, Indian, Chinese, and Creole.
 
  
In 1847 Mauritius became the fifth country in the world to issue postage stamps. The two types of stamps issued then, known as the ''[[Red Penny]]'' and the ''[[Blue Penny]]'' are probably the most famous stamps in the world, being very rare and therefore also very expensive.
+
[[Image:ExtinctDodoBird.jpeg|thumb|150px|Mauritius was the only known habitat of the extinct [[Dodo]] bird.]]
  
When discovered, the island of Mauritius was home to a previously unknown species of bird, which the Portuguese named the [[dodo]] (simpleton), as they appeared not too bright. However, by 1681, all dodos had been killed by settlers or their domesticated animals. Nevertheless, the dodo is prominently featured as a supporter of the national coat-of-arms
+
In 1847, Mauritius became the fifth country in the world to issue [[postage stamp]]s. The two types of stamps issued then, known as the ''[[Red Penny]]'' and the ''[[Blue Penny]]'' are probably the most famous stamps in the world, being very rare and therefore also very expensive.
  
===Government===
+
When discovered, the island of Mauritius was home to a previously unknown species of bird, which the Portuguese named the [[dodo]] (simpleton), as they appeared not too bright. However, by 1681, all dodos had been killed by settlers or their [[domesticated animal]]s. An alternate theory suggests that the imported [[wild boar]] destroyed the slow breeding dodo population. Nevertheless, the dodo is prominently featured as a [[supporter]] of the national [[coat-of-arms]] (see above).
* [http://www.gov.mu/ Government of Mauritius] official government site
 
  
===News===
+
[[Image:Horse racing in Mauritius.JPG|thumb|200px|left|Maiden 2006 Parade]]
* [http://allafrica.com/mauritius/ allAfrica.com - ''Mauritius''] news headline links
 
* [http://mbc.intnet.mu/ Mauritius broadcasting Corp.] - Public TV/Radio Broadcasting
 
  
===Bank===
+
'''Horse racing''' (April - December) is one of the most popular sports on the island and the electrifying ambiance at [[Port Louis]] (Champ de Mars), notably for the Maiden Cup (listed race), is unique in world racing.
* [http://www.mcb.mu/ Mauritius Commercial Bank]
 
* [http://www.sbmonline.com State Bank of Mauritius]
 
  
===Business===
+
The island has also given rise to a diversified literature, prominent in French, English, Creole and Hindi languages.
* [http://www.mcci.org/ Mauritius Chamber of Commerce and Industry]
 
  
===Directories===
+
==International rankings==
* [http://search.looksmart.com/p/browse/us1/us317916/us559898/us559899/us10065675/us559935/ LookSmart - ''Mauritius''] directory category
+
{| class="wikitable" style="margin: 1em auto 1em auto"
* [http://search.looksmart.com/p/browse/us1/us317916/us559898/us559899/us10065675/us559935/ Open Directory Project - ''Mauritius''] directory category
+
|-
* [http://dir.yahoo.com/Regional/Countries/Mauritius/ Yahoo - ''Mauritius''] directory category
+
! Organisation
 +
! Survey
 +
! Ranking
 +
|-
 +
| [[Heritage Foundation]]/[[The Wall Street Journal]]
 +
| [http://www.heritage.org/research/features/index/countries.cfm 2006 Index of Economic Freedom]
 +
| 77 out of 157
 +
|-
 +
| [[Reporters Without Borders]]
 +
| [http://www.rsf.org/rubrique.php3?id_rubrique=554 Press Freedom Index (2005)]
 +
| 34 out of 167
 +
|-
 +
| [[Transparency International]]
 +
| [http://www.transparency.org/news_room/in_focus/cpi_2006/cpi_table Corruption Perceptions Index 2006]
 +
| 42 out of 163
 +
|-
 +
| [[United Nations Development Programme]]
 +
| [http://hdr.undp.org/hdr2006/statistics/ Human Development Index 2006]
 +
|63 out of 177
 +
|}
  
===Tourism===
+
==See also==
 +
{{Mauritius-related topics|state=uncollapsed}}
 +
 
 +
===Miscellaneous topics===
 +
*[[Tertiary education in Mauritius]]
 +
*[[University of Technology, Mauritius]]
 +
*[[Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport]]
 +
*[[Air Mauritius]] - National Airline
 +
*[[The Mauritius Scout Association]]
 +
 
 +
==Notes and references==
 +
{{Reflist|2}}
 +
*Entry on [https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/mp.html Mauritius] in the CIA World Factbook
 +
*[http://www.zmag.org/content/showarticle.cfm?sectionID=2&ItemID=11954 Dependencies of Mauritius]
 +
 
 +
==Further reading==
 +
*Dodd, Jan and Madeleine Philippe. ''Lonely Planet Mauritius Reunion & Seychelles''. Lonely Planet Publications, 2004. ISBN 1-74059-301-4
 +
*Lee, Jacques: ''Mauritius: Its Creole Language - The Ultimate Creole Phrase Book and Dictionary'', Paperback 160 pages (August 15, 2005), Publisher: Nautilus, ISBN 0-9511296-4-3.
 +
*Lee, Jacques: ''Sega: The Mauritian Folk Dance'', Paperback 104 pages (December 1990), Publisher: Nautilus, ISBN 0-9511296-1-9
 +
*Khal Torabully, ''Coolitude : An Anthology of the Indian Labour Diaspora'' (with Marina Carter, Anthem Press, London, 2002) ISBN 1843310031
 +
 
 +
==External links==
 +
{{sisterlinks|Mauritius}}
 
*{{wikitravel}}
 
*{{wikitravel}}
* [http://www.mauritius-shop.net/ Book your Hotel / Bungalow directly in Mauritius]
+
*[http://www.gov.mu/ Government of Mauritius] (official site)
* [http://english.mauritius-tipps.de/ My suggestions for Mauritius]
+
*[http://www.investmauritius.com/ Board of Investment, Mauritius ] (official site)
* [http://www.mauritius.net/ Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority] official tourism site
+
*[http://www.tourism-mauritius.mu/ Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority] (official site)
* [http://www.mauritius-islander.com/ A trip to Mauritius]
+
*{{dmoz|Regional/Africa/Mauritius/}}
 +
*[http://www.mauritius-weather.net Mauritius Weather] Actual weather report from the Mauritius region.
 +
 
 +
<!--===========================({{NoMoreLinks}})===============================—>
 +
<!--| DO NOT ADD MORE LINKS TO THIS ARTICLE. WIKIPEDIA IS NOT A COLLECTION OF |—>
 +
<!--| LINKS. If you think that your link might be useful, do not add it here, |—>
 +
<!--| but put it on this article's discussion page first or submit your link  |—>
 +
<!--| to the appropriate category at the Open Directory Project (www.dmoz.org)|—>
 +
<!--| and link back to that category using the {{dmoz}} template.            |—>
 +
<!--|                                                                        |—>
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<!--|          Links that have not been verified WILL BE DELETED.            |—>
 +
<!--|  See [[Wikipedia:External links]] and [[Wikipedia:Spam]] for details    |—>
 +
<!--===========================({{NoMoreLinks}})===============================—>
  
===Other===
+
{{Template group
* [http://www.mauritius-shop.net/ Mauritius Shop] - Mauritian Online Shop
+
|title = Geographic locale
* [http://www.mi.mu/ Mauritius Interactive] to connect friends worldwide
+
|list  =
* [http://www.mauritius-info.com/ Mauritius Info] - Mauritian portal
+
{{Countries of Southern Africa}}
* [http://www.uom.ac.mu/ University of Mauritius]
+
{{Countries of Africa}}
* [http://www.utm.ac.mu/ University of Technology, Mauritius]
+
{{Countries and territories bordering the Indian Ocean}}
* [http://www.topfmradio.com/ TopFm Radio] - Live, local, Mauritian radio station
+
}}
* [http://www.colonialvoyage.com/mauritius.html The Dutch in Mauritius] The Dutch in Mauritius
+
{{Template group
 +
|title = International membership
 +
|list  =
 +
{{Southern African Development Community (SADC)}}
 +
{{African Union (AU)}}
 +
{{La Francophonie|state=collapsed}}
 +
{{Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP)|state=collapsed}}
 +
{{Indo-Iranian-speaking regions}}
 +
{{Commonwealth of Nations}}
 +
}}
  
{{credit|23343464}}
+
<!--Categories—>
 +
[[Category:African nations]]
 +
[[Category:Africa]]
 +
[[Category:Nations and places]]
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[[credit|142696559}}

Revision as of 18:54, 5 July 2007


Republic of Mauritius
Flag of Mauritius Coat of arms of Mauritius
Flag Coat of arms
Motto: "Stella Clavisque Maris Indici" (Latin)
"Star and Key of the Indian Ocean"
Anthem: Motherland
Location of Mauritius
Capital Port Louis
20°10′S 57°31′E
Largest city capital
Official languages English1
Government Republic
 - President Anerood Jugnauth
 - Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam
Independence from the United Kingdom 
 - Date March 12 1968 
 - Republic March 12 1992 
Area
 - Total 2,040 km² (179th)
787 sq mi 
 - Water (%) 0.05
Population
 - 2006 estimate 1,219,2202
 - Density 616/km²
1,564/sq mi
GDP (PPP) 2006 estimate
 - Total $16.0 billion
 - Per capita $13,703
HDI  (2004) Green Arrow Up (Darker).png 0.800 (high)
Currency Mauritian rupee (MUR)
Time zone MUT (UTC+4)
 - Summer (DST) not observed (UTC+4)
Internet TLD .mu
Calling code +230

Mauritius, officially the Republic of Mauritius, is an island nation off the coast of Africa in the southwest Indian Ocean, about 900 kilometers (560 mi) east of Madagascar. In addition to the island of Mauritius, the republic includes the islands of St. Brandon, Rodrigues and the Agalega Islands. Mauritius is part of the Mascarene Islands, with the French island of Réunion 200 km (125 mi) to the southwest and the island of Rodrigues 570 km to the east-northeast.

History

The first record of Mauritius comes from Arab and Malay sailors as early as the tenth century. Portuguese sailors first visited it in 1505, and established a visiting base leaving the island uninhabited. Three ships of the eight Dutch Second Fleet that were sent to the Spice Islands were blown off course during a cyclone and landed on the island in 1598, naming it in honor of Prince Maurice of Nassau, the Stadtholder of the Netherlands.[1] In 1638, the Dutch established the first permanent settlement. Because of tough climatic conditions, including cyclones and the deterioration of the settlement, the Dutch abandoned the island some decades later. The French who controlled the neighboring Bourbon island (now Réunion) moved in to seize Mauritius in 1715 and later named it Ile de France (Isle of France). The French got the economy well underway with a flourishing sugar production industry. One of the great initiators of this economic leap was St-Malo born governor François Mahé de Labourdonnais. The French however harbored the outlawed "corsairs" (mercenary pirates) who regulalry sunk gold, precious gems, silk and spice laden British vessels on their way to Britain from India. The British set to gain military control of the island. Despite winning the famous Battle of Grand Port, Napoleon's only naval win over the British, the French were defeated by the British in the north of the island, at Cap Malheureux (Hapless Cape) three months later, and thus lost possession to the British in 1810. The latter reverted the island to its former name.

In 1965, the United Kingdom split the Chagos Archipelago from Mauritius to create the British Indian Ocean Territory in order to use the strategic islands for defense purposes in co-operation with the United States. Although the Government of Mauritius agreed to the move at the time, subsequent administrations have laid claim to the islands stating that the divestment was illegal under international law - a claim recognised by the United Nations.

A postcard c.1900-1910 showing the Port Louis theater.

Mauritius attained independence in 1968 and the country became a republic within the Commonwealth in 1992. Mauritius has been a stable democracy with regular free elections and a positive human rights record,[2] and has attracted considerable foreign investment earning one of Africa's highest per capita incomes. Mauritius aims to become the business hub of the Indian Ocean. New business opportunities in banking and the technology sector are being actively sought.

Through the celebration of the Bicentenary of the Battle of Grand Port in 2010, Mauritius is aiming at rebuilding its maritime heritage and reclaiming its title of the Star & the Key of the Indian Ocean.

Politics

Mauritius is a parliamentary democracy based on the Westminsterian model of the United Kingdom.[3] The head of state of Mauritius is the President, who is elected for a five-year term by the National Assembly, the unicameral Mauritian parliament. The National Assembly consists of 62 members elected directly by popular vote, with between four and eight further members appointed from "best losers" election candidates to represent ethnic minorities, if under represented after the elections. The government is headed by the prime minister and a council of ministers.

The Government is elected on a five-year basis. The most recent general elections took place on July 3, 2005, in all the 20 mainland constituencies, as well as the constituency covering the island of Rodrigues.

Historically, elections have always had a tendency to adhere to a system comprising two major coalitions of parties.

In international affairs, Mauritius is part of the Indian Ocean Commission, the Southern African Development Community and the Commonwealth of Nations and La Francophonie (French speaking countries) among others.

In 2006, Mauritius asked to be an observing member of the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP) in order to become closer to those countries.[4]

Districts and dependencies

Districts of Mauritius

The island of Mauritius itself is divided into nine districts:

Dependencies of Mauritius:

  • Rodrigues, an island 560 kilometers northeast of Mauritius, which attained limited autonomy in October 2002.[5][6] Had the status of the 10th administrative district of Mauritius before autonomy was attained.[7]
  • Agalega, two small islands about 933 kilometers (580 mi) north of Mauritius.
  • Cargados Carajos Shoals, also known as the Saint Brandon islands, about 402 kilometers (250 mi) north of Mauritius.

Other Mauritian territories:

  • Soudan Banks (including East Soudan Bank)
  • Nazareth Bank
  • Saya de Malha Bank
  • Hawkins Bank

Mauritius also claims the following islands[citation needed]:

  • In French possession: Tromelin Island, Île Saint-Paul, Île Amsterdam
  • In Seychellois possession: Île Platte and Coëtivy Island
  • In British possession: Chagos Archipelago

Geography

Map of Mauritius

Together with Réunion and Rodrigues, Mauritius is part of the Mascarene Islands. This archipelago was formed in a series of undersea volcanic eruptions, as the African plate drifted over the Réunion hotspot. Mauritius and Rodrigues were formed 8-10 million years ago. They are no longer volcanically active, and the hotspot now rests under Réunion. The island of Mauritius itself is formed around a central plateau, with its highest peak in the southwest, Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire at 828 metres (2,717 ft). Around the plateau, the original crater can still be distinguished from several mountains.

Satellite image of Mauritius, February 2003.

The local climate is tropical, modified by southeast trade winds; there is a warm, dry winter from May to November and a hot, wet, and humid summer from November to May. Cyclones affect the country during November-April.

The island's capital and largest city is Port Louis, in the northwest. Other important towns are Curepipe, Vacoas, Phoenix, Quatre Bornes, Rose-Hill and Beau-Bassin.

The island is well known for its exceptional natural beauty; "You gather the idea that Mauritius was made first and then heaven, and that heaven was copied after Mauritius," as Mark Twain noted in Following the Equator.

Economy

Skyline of Port Louis, the capital of Mauritius.


Since independence in 1968, Mauritius has developed from a low-income, agriculturally based economy to a middle income diversified economy with growing industrial, financial, and tourist sectors. For most of the period, annual growth has been of the order of 5% to 6%. This has been reflected in increased life expectancy, lowered infant mortality and a much improved infrastructure.

Estimated at $16.28 billion for 2005, Mauritius has the 2nd highest GDP per capita in Africa. It is only exceeded by Equatorial Guinea, which derives most of its revenue from oil exports. Mauritius has a mature economy with a great deal of wealth distribution among its citizens[citation needed]. The economy is mainly dependent on sugarcane plantations, tourism, textiles, and services, but other sectors are rapidly developing as well.

Sugar cane is grown on about 90% of the cultivated land area and accounts for 25% of export earnings. However, a record-setting drought severely damaged the sugar crop in 1999. The government's development strategy centres on foreign investment. Mauritius has attracted more than 9,000 offshore entities; many aimed at commerce in India and South Africa while investment in the banking sector alone has reached over $1 billion. Economic performance during the period from 2000 through 2004 combined strong economic growth with unemployment at 7.6% in December 2004. France is the country's biggest trading partner, and has close ties with the country. They also provide technical assistance in various forms.

Mauritius is gearing towards becoming a duty-free island within the coming four years. Duty has been decreased (and for many products completely eliminated) for more than 1850 products including clothing, food, jewelry, photographic equipment, audio visual equipment and lighting equipment.

The main motivations are (1) Attract more tourists going to Singapore and Dubai, and, (2) Give all Mauritians easier access to quality products at affordable prices.

A plan by ADB Networks calls for Mauritius to become the first nation to have coast-to-coast wireless internet access. The wireless hot spot currently covers about 60% of the island and is accessible by about 70% of its population. By the end of 2006, antennas should have provided access to 90% of the island, however, this has not yet happened.

Its biggest trading partners are France and the UK.

Mauritius ranks first in respect of FDI inflows to India amongst all the countries with cumulative inflows amounting to US $ 10.98 billion. Top sectors attracting FDI inflows from Mauritius (from January 2000 to December, 2005) are electrical equipment, telecommunications, fuels, cement and gypsum products and services sector (financial and non-financial).[8]

As Mauritius opens to the world, aiming to transform itself into a competitive global business platform, the national investment promotion agency, the Board of Investment (BOI) has put at the service of the international business community a range of services, free of charge, to attract international investment and talents in the country.[9]

Demographics

Mauritian society is highly multi-ethnic. Most of the island residents are the descendants of people from the Indian subcontinent. Mauritius also has large immigrant populations from continental Africa, Madagascar, France, Great Britain, and China, among other places.

The official language of Mauritius is English. All government administrative documents are therefore drawn up in English. Together with English, French is also used in instruction in the educational system. French, however, predominates in the media, both broadcast and printed as well as with business and in corporate affairs . Mauritian Creole, which is derived from French with influences from the other dialects, is widely spoken on the island and is considered the native tongue of the country. Creole was the language used by the African slaves to communicate with their French masters. Today, Creole is used in everyday life by all Mauritians. Hindi is also widely spoken, though restricted to the Indian community. Several other languages, including Arabic, Urdu, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi, Bhojpuri, Gujarati, Punjabi and dialects of Chinese, such as Cantonese, Hakka and Mandarin, are also spoken. The Indian languages are spoken by descendants of the labourers brought from British India during the British rule.

The Indo-Mauritians (when the ethnic groups are combined) form approximately 70% of the total population, the remaining 30% being mostly Creoles. There are approximately 30,000 Mauritians of Chinese descent, from the Hakka, Mandarin, and Cantonese language groups. More than 90% of the Sino-Mauritian community are Roman Catholic; the remainder are largely Buddhist.

Small groups of foreign students from Europe or the Indian Ocean region are also present. The recent years have seen a steady flow of foreign workers, mostly Chinese women, into the textile industry, Indian workers in the construction industry and Taiwanese men in the harbour-related activities. Immigration policy does not provoke much debate in Mauritius, and the relative economic stability of the island is attracting more foreign workers.

The majority of Mauritians practice Hinduism (52%). Roman Catholic 28%, Islam (16.6%), Buddhism (2.5%), Adventist Protestants (2%), Sikhism (0.3%) and other religions are also followed.[10]

Culture

Mauritian beach.


The cuisine of Mauritius is a blend of Indian Cuisine, Creole, Chinese and European. It is not uncommon for a combination of cuisines to form part of the same meal. The "cari poule" or chicken curry, for example, is a very popular dish. The "mine-frit" (Chinese fried noodles) and "niouk nien" (dumplings) are loved by all and readily bought by the Mauritian community either in restaurants or on the sidewalks of main streets. 'Alouda' (a milk-based drink with basil seeds) has become a typical Mauritian drink and the 'dholl puri' can be considered a favourite with all communities.

The historical evolution of the rum industry in Mauritius is no less enriching than that of the Caribbean or that of South America.

Sugarcane was first introduced on the island when the Dutch colonised it in 1638. Even then, the propensity of making rum out of sugarcane was strongly recognised. Sugarcane was mainly cultivated for the production of “arrack,” a precursor to rum. Only much later, almost 60 years after, that the first proper sugar was produced. However, it was during the French and English administration, that sugar production was fully exploited. This highly contributed to the economical development of the island. It was Mr. Pierre Charles François Harel who initially proposed the concept of local distillation of rum in Mauritius, in 1850. In part due to his efforts, Mauritius today houses three distilleries (Grays, Medine & St Aubin) and is in the process of opening another three.[citation needed]

The sega is the local folklore music. Sega has African roots, and the music is produced using goat-skin percussion instruments called ravane and metallic clicks using metal triangles. The song usually describes the miseries of slavery, and has been adapted nowadays as social satires to voice out inequalities as felt by the blacks. The rhythm, however, remains very festive and while the men are at the instruments, the Creole women gyrate in large fluid and revealing skirts with bright colours. Shows are regularly hosted in the coastal hotels.

Mauritius was the only known habitat of the extinct Dodo bird.

In 1847, Mauritius became the fifth country in the world to issue postage stamps. The two types of stamps issued then, known as the Red Penny and the Blue Penny are probably the most famous stamps in the world, being very rare and therefore also very expensive.

When discovered, the island of Mauritius was home to a previously unknown species of bird, which the Portuguese named the dodo (simpleton), as they appeared not too bright. However, by 1681, all dodos had been killed by settlers or their domesticated animals. An alternate theory suggests that the imported wild boar destroyed the slow breeding dodo population. Nevertheless, the dodo is prominently featured as a supporter of the national coat-of-arms (see above).

Horse racing (April - December) is one of the most popular sports on the island and the electrifying ambiance at Port Louis (Champ de Mars), notably for the Maiden Cup (listed race), is unique in world racing.

The island has also given rise to a diversified literature, prominent in French, English, Creole and Hindi languages.

International rankings

Organisation Survey Ranking
Heritage Foundation/The Wall Street Journal 2006 Index of Economic Freedom 77 out of 157
Reporters Without Borders Press Freedom Index (2005) 34 out of 167
Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index 2006 42 out of 163
United Nations Development Programme Human Development Index 2006 63 out of 177

See also

Template:Mauritius-related topics

Miscellaneous topics

  • Tertiary education in Mauritius
  • University of Technology, Mauritius
  • Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport
  • Air Mauritius - National Airline
  • The Mauritius Scout Association

Notes and references

Further reading

  • Dodd, Jan and Madeleine Philippe. Lonely Planet Mauritius Reunion & Seychelles. Lonely Planet Publications, 2004. ISBN 1-74059-301-4
  • Lee, Jacques: Mauritius: Its Creole Language - The Ultimate Creole Phrase Book and Dictionary, Paperback 160 pages (August 15, 2005), Publisher: Nautilus, ISBN 0-9511296-4-3.
  • Lee, Jacques: Sega: The Mauritian Folk Dance, Paperback 104 pages (December 1990), Publisher: Nautilus, ISBN 0-9511296-1-9
  • Khal Torabully, Coolitude : An Anthology of the Indian Labour Diaspora (with Marina Carter, Anthem Press, London, 2002) ISBN 1843310031

External links


Geographic locale


International membership

Template:Southern African Development Community (SADC)


Template:Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP) Template:Indo-Iranian-speaking regions Template:Commonwealth of Nations

[[credit|142696559}}