About BS
Official Name
The official name of the country is the Commonwealth of the Bahamas.
Location
The Bahamas is an archipelago consisting of more than 700 islands, cays, and islets located in the Atlantic Ocean, southeast of the United States, north of Cuba, and northwest of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Capital
The capital city of the Bahamas is Nassau, located on the island of New Providence.
Population
The Bahamas has a population of approximately 393,000 people.
Language
The official language of the Bahamas is English.
Ethnicity
The majority of the population of the Bahamas is of African descent, with smaller minorities of European and mixed-race heritage.
Geography
The Bahamas is known for its stunning beaches, clear turquoise waters, and coral reefs. The islands are mostly low-lying, with the highest point being Mount Alvernia on Cat Island at just 63 meters (207 feet) above sea level.
Economy
The economy of the Bahamas is heavily reliant on tourism and financial services. Tourism accounts for a significant portion of the country's GDP, with millions of visitors flocking to the Bahamas each year to enjoy its beautiful beaches, resorts, and water sports.
Currency
The currency of the Bahamas is the Bahamian dollar (BSD), which is pegged to the US dollar (USD) at a 1:1 ratio.
Government
The Bahamas is a parliamentary democracy and a constitutional monarchy. The Head of State is the Queen of the United Kingdom, who is represented in the Bahamas by a Governor-General. The Prime Minister is the Head of Government and leads the executive branch.
Culture
The culture of the Bahamas is a vibrant mix of African, European, and Caribbean influences. Junkanoo, a colorful and energetic street parade featuring music, dance, and costumes, is a significant cultural event celebrated in the Bahamas.
National Items of the Bahamas
Blue Marlin
The blue marlin is the national fish of the Bahamas and symbolizes the rich marine life and the importance of fishing to the Bahamian economy and culture.
Pink Flamingo
The pink flamingo is a national bird of the Bahamas, representing the country's vibrant wildlife and beautiful natural landscapes.
Conch
Conch is a staple in Bahamian cuisine, often used in dishes like conch salad and conch fritters. It symbolizes the country's culinary traditions and its connection to the sea.
Junkanoo
Junkanoo is a traditional Bahamian festival featuring music, dance, and elaborate costumes, held on Boxing Day and New Year's Day. It represents the cultural heritage and festive spirit of the Bahamian people.
Yellow Elder
The yellow elder is the national flower of the Bahamas. It symbolizes the beauty and natural flora of the islands.
Bahama Mama
Bahama Mama is a popular cocktail in the Bahamas, made with rum, coconut, and fruit juices. It represents the island's laid-back lifestyle and tropical climate.
Androsia
Androsia is a type of batik fabric handmade on Andros Island. It symbolizes the artistic heritage and craftsmanship of the Bahamian people.
Lighthouse at Hope Town
The red and white striped lighthouse at Hope Town on Elbow Cay is a notable landmark. It symbolizes the maritime history and navigational importance of the Bahamas.
The national anthem of the Bahamas is called "March On, Bahamaland." Here are the lyrics in English:
Lift your head to the rising sun, Bahamaland,
March on to glory, your bright banners waving high.
See how the world marks the manner of your bearing!
Pledge to excel through love and unity.
Pressing onward, march together
to a common loftier goal;
Steady sunward, tho' the weather
hide the wide and treacherous shoal.
Lift your head to the rising sun, Bahamaland,
'Til the road you've trod lead unto your God,
March on, Bahamaland.
