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The Republic of Mauritius consists of the main island situated 800km (500mi) east of Madagascar, Rodrigues and several small islands.
The main island, fringed with coral reefs, rises to a high lava plateau. The climate
is tropical with heavy rains in winter.
French from 1715 and British from 1810, the territory gained independence as a
constitutional monarchy in 1992. The islands suffer tensions between the Indian
majority, who are descended from contract workers brought in after the end of
slavery in 1834 and the Creole minority.
Sugar-cane plantations cover extensive areas of Mauritius and, although the sugar
industry has declined, sugar is still exported. Tea and tobacco are also grown.
The expansion of textiles and clothing, together with growth in tourism, have
to some extent offset the decline in sugar, although Mauritius remains heavily
in debt.
There's so much more to learn... Check out our Facts For The Visitor or read up on our reviews of everything about Mauritius:
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