Located on the west coast of Africa, Liberiaborders the North Atlantic Ocean. Officially the Republic of Liberia, the country’s name means "Land of the Free," an apt title as it was founded as an independent nation for free-born and formerly enslaved African-Americans. Sixteen ethnic groups make up Liberia’s indigenous population. Liberia was traditionally noted for its academic institutions, iron mining, rubber industry, crafts, and culture, as well as for its hospitality. read more