Overview of Bangladesh

Profile

Bangladesh faces Bay of Bengal with national territory centering on downstream delta region of three major rivers: Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna. Fertile alluvial soil nurtured rich agriculture called "Golden Bengal" since ancient times but also suffered from floods and cyclones. Gained independence from Pakistan in 1971, becoming parliamentary republican nation. Recent textile industry and remittances from overseas workers support economy, recording high economic growth rates. Though Islam is majority, diverse religions and ethnicities coexist with unique Bengali culture and festivals thriving.

Official name: People's Republic of Bangladesh
Common name: Bangladesh
Numeric code: 050
Alpha-3 code: BGD
Alpha-2 code: BD
Population: Approximately 170 million (2022)
Population density: 1265
Primary languages: Bengali, English
Major religions: Islam
National anthem: Amar Sonar Bangla
Calling code: +880
Internet TLD: .bd

History

Young nation born through secession from East Pakistan (1971).

During British colonial period, was economic center of Indian subcontinent, with 1905 Bengal partition deepening Hindu-Muslim conflicts. Became East Pakistan in 1947 India-Pakistan partition but political and cultural friction with West Pakistan continued, resulting in Bangladesh independence through 1971 independence war and Third Indo-Pakistani War. Subsequently experienced coups and military rule before civilian parliamentary system established in 1991, proceeding with electoral power transitions and economic reforms.

Geography & climate

Consisting of vast alluvial plain formed by three major rivers Ganges, Brahmaputra, Meghna, plus southeastern hills and coastal dunes. Most national territory below 10m elevation lowland with mesh-like rivers and canals running.

Tropical monsoon climate

Area: Asia / 147570 km²
Capital: Dhaka
Largest city: Dhaka
Coastal status: Yes
Bordering countries: India, Myanmar

Natural resources

Natural gas, Hydroelectric resources, Fertile alluvial soil, Jute fiber, Abundant river fishery resources, Tea, Mango, Limestone, Silver Hill bamboo, Solar energy

Politics

Government: Republic (parliamentary system)

Economy

Currency: Bangladeshi Taka (BDT)

GDP (nominal): 4590 hundred million dollars (2023)

GDP (PPP): 12800 hundred million dollars (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: Bengali, English

Time zone: Bangladesh Standard Time

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Bengali, Chakma, Marma, Santal, Garo, Mro, Tripuri, Bihari, Rohingya refugees

Life expectancy

72.4

Literacy rate

75

National sports

Cricket, Kabaddi, Football, Badminton, Volleyball