Mauritania

Mauritania is a large state in north-west Africa, mostly desert, bridging the Maghreb and sub-Saharan Africa on the Atlantic coast. A former French colony independent since 1960, it has reserves of iron ore and offshore fisheries. Slavery persisted unusually late in its society. Its capital is Nouakchott.

• Existed: 1960 CE – present
• Type: Country
• Government: Presidential republic
• Capital: Nouakchott