Honduras means “depths” in Spanish a word Christopher Columbus
may have used to describe the waters along this land’s Atlantic coast. Some say
that is how Honduras was given its name.
Hondurans place high value on family loyalty and
collaboration. For example, major decisions such as those as regarding
household expenses or the education of children are often made by both husband
and wife.
Most Hondurans are mestizos, a blend of European and
indigenous people, some indigenous groups still remain, such as the chorti,
other native Hondurans, such as the Garifuna, trace their ancestry elsewhere.
The Garifuna are descendants of Africans and Carib Indians
who resided on St. Vincent Island.
About the year 1797, the Garifuna arrived at Islas de Bahia
(Bay Islands). Later, they settled along the Caribbean Coast of the Central
American mainland. From there the Garifuna eventually spread throughout other
parts of central and North America.
The Garifuna enjoy lively dances performed to the beat of
hardwood drums. Their culture also includes brightly colour traditional
garments, storytelling, and foods such as ereba (a large, thin cake made from
cassava root).
Fast Facts
Population:
8,111,000
Capital:
Tegucigalpa
Government:
Democratic Republic
Language:
Spanish
Climate:
subtropical, milder in the mountains
Land: Over 75 percent of the mainland is
mountainous. there are also low coastal plains and islands
