The Republic of Senegal is a West African nation bordered in the east by Mali and in the west by the Atlantic Ocean. To the south of Senegal lies Guinea and Guinea-Bissau and to the north of it is Mauritania.

1. Capital: Dakar
2. Language spoken: French
3. Currency: CFA franc
4. Country code: 221
5. Time zone: GMT
6. Airport code: DKR
7. Founded: 11th century
8. City population: 11,343,300 (2007)City Population: Senegal Population
9. Climate: Semi-arid
10. Government: Semi Presidential Republic
11. Bounded by the Atlantic Ocean, Mauritania, Mali, Guinea, and Guinea-BissauUSA.gov: Senegal Geography

Senegal is widely regarded as one of the most stable democracies in the African continent. It was ruled by the French from the 1850s until August 20, 1960, when it gained independence.

In 1994 the Senegalese government underwent a successful economic reform to combat recession. The major industries are mining, chemicals, textiles, petroleum, and tourism.

Senegal has a diversity of ethnic groups; the Wolof are the biggest group, claiming 43% of the population. The Peul and Toucouleur make up the second largest group. 95% percent of the population is Muslim, and 4% is Christian.