Madagascar: Meaning (information, definition, explanation, facts)

Madagascar is an island nation in the Indian Ocean, off the eastern coast of Africa. Madagascar is the 4th largest island in the world.

Republique de Madagascar
Repoblikan'i Madagasikara

coat of arms (In Detail) (Full size)
National motto: Tanindrazana, Fahafahana, Fandrosoana (Fatherland, Liberty, Justice)
Official language	French, Malagasy
Capital	Antananarivo
Capital's coordinates	18° 55' S, 47° 31' E
President	Marc Ravalomanana
Prime Minister	Jacques Sylla
Area  - Total  - % water	Ranked 45th 587,040 km² 0.9%
Population  - Total (2000)  - Density	Ranked 56th 15,506,472 26.4/km²
GDP (PPP)  - Total (Year)  - GDP/head	Ranked 123rd $12,590 million $800
Currency	Malagasy franc (FMG)
Time zone	UTC +3
Independence	26 June, 1960, from France
National anthem	Ry Tanindraza nay malala ô (Oh, Our Beloved Fatherland)
Internet TLD	.MG
Calling Code	261

Geography and Location

Aerial map

History

Main article: History of Madagascar

The first human settlement in Madagascar probably dates from the fourth century CE. From 1896 to 1960 the island was under French rule.

Main article: Politics of Madagascar

Main article: Provinces of Madagascar

Madagascar has six provinces, each named for their capital. They are Antananarivo province, Antsiranana province, Fianarantsoa province, Mahajanga province, Toamasina province and Toliara province.

Main article: Geography of Madagascar

Main article: Economy of Madagascar

Main article: Demographics of Madagascar

Main article: Culture of Madagascar

• Music of Madagascar
• List of writers from Madagascar

• Communications in Madagascar
• Transportation in Madagascar
• Military of Madagascar
• Foreign relations of Madagascar