Mauritius
Mauritius, located in the Indian Ocean east of Madagascar, has a history shaped by exploration, colonization, and cultural diversity. Uninhabited until the Middle Ages, it was first explored by Arabs and later by the Portuguese in the 16th century. In 1598, the Dutch claimed the island, naming it after Prince Maurice of Orange. However, the Dutch abandoned it in 1710.
In 1715, the French took control, renaming it "Île de France" and developing it into a key trading post. After the French defeat in 1810, the British took over, restoring the name "Mauritius" and abolishing slavery in 1835, leading to the arrival of indentured laborers from India to work on sugar plantations.
Mauritius gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1968 and became a republic in 1992. Today, it is known for its political stability, growing economy, and diverse culture influenced by African, European, Indian, and Chinese heritage.
