Liberia, situated on the West African coast, shares borders with Sierra Leone to its west, Guinea to its north, Ivory Coast to its east, and the Atlantic Ocean to its south. Encompassing an area of 111,369 square kilometers (43,000 sq mi), Liberia is home to approximately 4,700,000 people. English serves as the official language, while over 16 indigenous languages are spoken, representing the diverse ethnic groups constituting more than 95% of the population. Monrovia, the country's capital, also serves as its largest city.

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Liberia's origins trace back to a settlement established by the American Colonization Society (ACS), which sought to provide greater opportunities for freedom and prosperity to black individuals in Africa than in the United States. Independence was declared on July 26, 1847, though it was not recognized by the U.S. until February 5, 1862, amidst the American Civil War. Between January 7, 1822, and the Civil War, thousands of freed and free-born black individuals, facing discriminatory laws in the U.S., migrated to Liberia, alongside Afro-Caribbeans.

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These settlers brought their cultural heritage to Liberia, evident in the country's constitution and flag, modeled after those of the U.S. Joseph Jenkins Roberts, a wealthy, free-born African American from Virginia, was elected as Liberia's first president on January 3, 1848, following the declaration of independence.

Liberia holds the distinction of being Africa's first and oldest modern republic, maintaining its sovereignty during the Scramble for Africa. Throughout World War II, Liberia supported the United States' efforts against Germany, resulting in substantial U.S. investments in infrastructure to aid the war effort and modernize major air transportation facilities in Liberia. President William Tubman also spearheaded economic reforms during his tenure. Internationally, Liberia was a founding member of prominent organizations such as the League of Nations, the United Nations, and the Organisation of African Unity.

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However, tensions arose between the Americo-Liberian settlers and indigenous peoples, particularly in isolated regions. The colonial settlements faced raids from indigenous groups like the Kru and Grebo. The Americo-Liberians established a political elite, restricting birthright citizenship to indigenous tribes until 1904, mirroring the treatment of Native Americans in the United States. Additionally, religious organizations were promoted to establish missions and schools aimed at educating indigenous populations.