Colombia was home to advanced indigenous civilizations like the Muisca before Spanish colonization in the 16th century. It gained independence from Spain in 1819, initially as part of Gran Colombia. The 20th century saw periods of political violence, including the decades-long conflict with guerrilla groups. In recent years, Colombia has worked towards peace agreements and economic growth, becoming a major player in South America's economy.
Colombia, officially the Republic of Colombia, is a country located in the northwestern region of South America. It is bordered by Venezuela to the east, Brazil to the southeast, Peru and Ecuador to the south, Panama to the northwest, and the Caribbean Sea to the north and the Pacific Ocean to the west. Covering an area of approximately 1,141,748 square kilometers, Colombia has a diverse geography that includes the Amazon rainforest, Andean mountains, and numerous beaches along its coastlines. As of 2023, the population is estimated at around 51 million people. The capital and largest city is Bogotá. The official language is Spanish. Colombia operates as a unitary constitutional republic with a presidential system. The economy is diverse, with key sectors including oil, mining, agriculture, and tourism. Colombia is a member of international organizations such as the United Nations, the Organization of American States, and the Pacific Alliance.