The Co-operative Republic of Guyana, is the fourth smallest country on the South American continent with a total area of some 83,000 sq miles and a population of 773,303. It is, however, often considered part of the Caribbean region because of its strong cultural, historical, and political ties with other Anglo Caribbean countries and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). The country is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the north, Brazil to the south and southwest, Suriname to the east and Venezuela to the west. Originally inhabited by many indigenous groups, Guyana was settled by the Dutch before coming under British rule in the late 18th century. The legacy of British rule is reflected in the country’s political administration and diverse population, which includes Indian (from India), African, Native American, and multiracial groups. Guyana is the only South American nation in which English is the official language. The majority of the population, however, speak an English-based creole language  as a first language. The BLAC Foundation’s principle area of interest here are the Guyanese maroos.