Ecuador

Ecuador's biological diversity has contributed massively to global scientific advancements. Outside of Charles Darwin, an early effort to measure the Earth's circumference was held in Ecuador. Ecuador's luscious landscapes play into its large indigenous population which has lived off the land for millennia. Those who live in the highlands rotate crops such as corn, potatoes, and beans. There is a far more sizable Mestizo population (70%) of indigenous and European ancestry. Most indigenous peoples speak Quichua, but the number of non-native Spanish speakers is barely north of a million people. Ecuador's religious composition is mostly Catholic. Although Protestantism is growing, Catholicism continues to influence many aspects of everyday life as well as festivals and social services. Ecuador has a growing population spurred on by an influx of immigrants from Colombia and Peru as well as an increasing life expectancy. On the flip side, a score of Ecuadorians has relocated to Queens in New York City. Within the country, inhabitants have flocked to urban centers like Guayaquil to find jobs in the cities. The economy of Ecuador is focused on agriculture and other natural resource with a large potential for growth, but standards of living are fairly low across the board. Tourism makes up a big part of the economy too, with destinations like the Galapagos Islands being a popular spot for Western travelers. A portion of salaries is devoted to social welfare services, and the populous is given medical insurance and generous medical loans, but conditions are poor since the government invests little money into the programs. Primary school in Ecuador is compulsory and free, while secondary schools vary greatly, and it can become costly to find a good school. The Pontifical Catholic University is the most renowned school in Ecuador. In the lifespan of an Ecuadoran, most will get baptized, have a quinceañera, and consistently pay homage to a Saint, keeping their family at the center of everything they do. Easter is a big holiday in Ecuador, and during which, lots of fanesca is consumed, which is a soup made of fish, onions, and corn. Semana Santa is another large ordeal in Ecuador, as well as The Festival of San Juan Batista, which is an indigenous holiday. Empanadas are very popular in Ecuador, and more seafood-based dishes like ceviche are found along the coast. In terms of the arts, Ecuador is widely acclaimed for its folk art in forms like painting and wood carving. The artistic prowess of Ecuador can be accredited to indigenous populations using traditional materials to produce art. The national sport is soccer, bringing the nation together during World Cups despite the national team's limited success.