In the 19th century land was purchased on the African coast by the American Colonization Society, in order to return freed slaves to Africa. On April 9, 1827, a flag based on that of the United States was adopted, featuring a white cross. On Aug. 24, 1847, after independence, the cross was replaced by a star and the number of stripes was reduced.

Liberia Official name: Republic of Liberia. Form of government: multiparty republic with two legislative houses (Senate [26]; House of Representatives [64]). Head of state and government: President. Population (1998): 2,772,000. Population projection: (2000) 3,090,000; (2010) 4,342,000. Natural increase rate per 1,000 population (1996): 30.9 (world avg. 15.7). Gross national product (1996): U.S.$1,174,000,000 (U.S.$490 per capita). Land use (1994): forested 47.8%; meadows and pastures 20.8%; agricultural and under permanent cultivation 3.8%; other 27.6%.

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