Ecuador: God, Homeland, and Freedom
by McKenna Miller
Languages, Geography, and Population
Languages
There are many languages spoken in Ecuador, but the official ones include Spanish, Kichwa, and Shuar. Ecuadorian sign language is also used as a form of communication as well. English is also the most spoken foreign language in Ecuador.
Geography
Ecuador is a small country bordering the Pacific Ocean and is located directly on the equator, hence the country's name; Ecuador. Ecuador is known for it's wide range of natural formations. From the desert-like Southern coast to the snow capped peaks of the Andes mountain range, Ecuador's geography is a sight to behold.
Population
In total, there are about 14,483,499 people living in Ecuador since the 2010 census. In the 2011 estimate, there was about 15,223,680 people living in Ecuador. Life expectancy goes as high as 76 years old. That's two years more than Venezuela and three more years than Colombia.
Ecuador's Flag
Colors: The colors on Ecuador's flag are the primary colors (red, blue, and yellow). The yellow on the flag stands for plentiful crops and fertile soil. The blue stands for the oceans and the skies. Lastly, the red stands for the blood shed by soldiers in battle.
Coat of Arms: In the center of Ecuador's flag is their Coat of Arms. The condor above the emblem represents power. Below that is a curved belt of the four zodiac signs; Aries, Taurus, Gemini, and Cancer. These zodiac signs represent the months of March-July to symbolize the March Revolution that started on March 6th, 1845.
Popular Tourist Sites
Otavalo Market
In the small town of Otavalo, Ecuador; there's no better place to buy colorful art, clothing, and other handmade items at this weekly event held in the city.
Galapagos Islands
This should be an easy choice to make. From the exotic wildlife found on the island to the crystal clear waters and white sand beaches; this small archipelago of volcanic islands would be the perfect vacation for anyone.
La Compañía
Located in the country's capital, the Church of the Society of Jesus, or “La Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús" is one of Ecuador's most famous cathedrals. It's intricate design is sure to leave you breathless.
Food
Sure, you can eat cows, chicken, fish, even deer, but Ecuador takes cuisine to a whole new level with small servings of Guinea pig called Cuy. Not all of the rodent is eaten in one sitting because the most edible part is the fat and the skin, giving the Guinea pig a very gamy taste.
Grilled Cuy in Cuenca, Ecuador
Education, Government, and Currency
Education in Ecuador
Ecuador's education system is very strong and well organized. Almost 97% of Ecuador's population is enrolled in primary school with 71% staying in school throughout primary and secondary school. Most of the students went on to one of the 29 universities Ecuador has to offer.
Ecuador's Government
The Republic of Ecuador's government is a Representative Democracy, which is a type of government where elected officials represent a group of people. Ecuador's President is Rafael Correa, who had been in office since 2007. Other leaders include Jorge Glas and Lenín Moreno (both Vice President).
Ecuador's Currency
On March 13th, 2000; the country of Ecuador started using the US Dollar (USD) as their national currency. Before the USD, Ecuador used Ecuadorian pesos (coins) and peso notes (paper money) as their official currency.