Maps of Libya

Bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the north, Libya is a low-population African country with huge oil reserves. While the total area is close to 680,000 square miles, the population is close to only 5.6 million, resulting in a low population density of 9.4 persons every square mile. The per capita nominal GDP is almost $12,000, thanks to the vast natural reserves of oil. The main language is Arabic, and Modern Standard Arabic is the official language. More than 97% of Libyan population follows the Islam religion.

After the early Phoenicians, Libya was established as a popular city of the Roman Empire. Somewhere about AD 650, however, the Arab conquerors defeated the local rules and established their kingdom. Later on, Libya was an Italian colony. The independence was announced on 24 December 1951 by King Idris. In 1969, he was overthrown by the military leader Muammar Gaddafi. However, many acts of human rights violation were committed under Gaddafi’s rule.

Almost 25% of Libya’s GDP comprises oil exports, which happens to be the dominant trading sector. Because of its oil wealth, Libya has been able to embark on ambitious agriculture and river projects. Business is booming in the country, which is attracting more investors. Libya is also famous for tourism, and the demand for hotels is on the rise.

In early 2011, a fierce civil unrest reared its head against Gaddafi, demanding a democratic government and more freedom.