Guinean

Guinean is a demonym used for people and anything related to Guinea, a country on the west coast of Africa commonly referred to as Guinea or Guinea-Conakry. In practice, Guineans are the citizens or inhabitants of Guinea, and the term is also used to describe culture, language, and other features associated with the country.

Historically, the word Guinea described a broad region of West Africa and was used by European powers to designate various coastal and inland areas. In contemporary usage, Guinean most often refers specifically to Guinea (Conakry). The broad usage can cause ambiguity with nearby states such as Guinea-Bissau and Equatorial Guinea, whose residents are typically described with more precise demonyms.

Languages and religion in Guinea reflect its ethnic diversity. The official language is French, with local languages such as Fula, Malinke, and Susu widely spoken. The population practices Islam as the majority religion, alongside Christian communities and traditional beliefs.

Geographically, Guinea lies along the Atlantic coast and is bordered by Guinea-Bissau, Senegal, Mali, Ivory Coast, Liberia, and Sierra Leone. The capital city is Conakry. The terrain ranges from coastal plains to forest and savanna in the interior, and the country has significant mineral resources alongside an agricultural sector.

Guinea gained independence from France in 1958 after a notable struggle led by Sékou Touré. Since independence, its political history has included periods of transition and military influence, with various changes in governance over the decades.

The Guinean economy is supported by mining, especially bauxite, as well as agriculture and energy development. Guinean culture is marked by traditions in music, storytelling, and artisanal crafts that contribute to the broader West African cultural landscape.