Countries that Starts with Letter W
There are three territories or regions whose names start with the letter “W”: Wales, Wallis and Futuna, and Western Sahara. Each of these has distinct characteristics, governance structures, and cultural identities.
Overview of Countries and Regions Starting with “W”
- Wales
- Wallis and Futuna
- Western Sahara
Geographical and Cultural Context
These regions vary significantly in terms of geography, culture, and political status. Wales is a constituent country of the United Kingdom, Wallis and Futuna is a French overseas collectivity, and Western Sahara is a disputed territory in North Africa.
Wales
Geography and Climate
Wales is a country located in the southwestern part of Great Britain and is part of the United Kingdom. It is bordered by England to the east, the Bristol Channel to the south, the Celtic Sea to the west, and the Irish Sea to the north.
Climate
Wales has a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and cool summers. The country experiences significant rainfall throughout the year, especially in the mountainous regions.
Major Regions
- North Wales: Known for its mountainous terrain, including Snowdonia National Park, which is home to the highest peak in Wales, Mount Snowdon.
- Mid Wales: Characterized by rolling hills and lush countryside, this region is less densely populated and features several market towns and nature reserves.
- South Wales: The most populous region, including the capital city, Cardiff, and the industrial and cultural centers of Swansea and Newport.
- West Wales: Known for its stunning coastline and coastal national parks, including Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.
History
Ancient History
The history of Wales dates back to ancient times, with evidence of human settlement since the Paleolithic era. The Celtic Britons inhabited the region before the Roman conquest of Britain in the first century AD.
Medieval Period
After the fall of the Roman Empire, Wales became a patchwork of small kingdoms. In the 13th century, Llywelyn the Great and his grandson, Llywelyn ap Gruffudd, played significant roles in unifying parts of Wales. The defeat of Llywelyn ap Gruffudd by Edward I of England in 1282 marked the beginning of English dominance over Wales.
Union with England
The Laws in Wales Acts of 1535 and 1542, enacted under Henry VIII, fully integrated Wales into the Kingdom of England. Despite political union, Wales maintained a distinct cultural and linguistic identity.
Modern History
Wales experienced significant industrialization during the 19th century, particularly in coal mining and steel production. The 20th century saw a resurgence of Welsh national identity, leading to the establishment of the National Assembly for Wales (now the Senedd) in 1999, which granted Wales a degree of self-governance.
Economy
Key Economic Sectors
Wales has a diverse economy, with key sectors including manufacturing, services, agriculture, and tourism.
- Manufacturing: Wales has a strong manufacturing sector, particularly in aerospace, automotive, and electronics industries.
- Services: The service sector, including finance, education, and healthcare, plays a significant role in the economy.
- Agriculture: Wales has a robust agricultural sector, with sheep farming being particularly important.
- Tourism: Wales attracts millions of visitors each year to its national parks, historic sites, and cultural events.
Culture
Language
Welsh and English are the official languages of Wales. The Welsh language has seen a revival in recent decades, and efforts are ongoing to promote its use in education and public life.
Traditions and Festivals
Wales has a rich cultural heritage with unique traditions, music, dance, and cuisine. The country is known for its male voice choirs, eisteddfodau (Welsh festivals of literature, music, and performance), and traditional Welsh dishes like cawl (a hearty stew) and Welsh cakes.
Tourism
Tourism is a vital industry in Wales, driven by the country’s rich natural beauty and cultural heritage. Some of the most popular tourist attractions include:
- Snowdonia National Park: Known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor activities.
- Cardiff Castle: A historic castle located in the capital city, Cardiff.
- Pembrokeshire Coast National Park: Renowned for its dramatic coastal scenery and wildlife.
Wallis and Futuna
Geography and Climate
Wallis and Futuna is a French overseas collectivity located in the South Pacific Ocean. It consists of three main islands: Wallis Island (Uvea), Futuna Island, and Alofi Island.
Climate
Wallis and Futuna have a tropical climate, characterized by warm temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. The region experiences a wet season from November to April and a dry season from May to October.
Major Islands
- Wallis Island (Uvea): The largest and most populous island, home to the capital, Mata-Utu.
- Futuna Island: Known for its rugged terrain and traditional Polynesian culture.
- Alofi Island: Mostly uninhabited, but rich in natural beauty and resources.
History
Ancient History
The islands of Wallis and Futuna have been inhabited by Polynesian peoples for over a thousand years. They developed distinct cultures and social structures, with strong ties to other Polynesian islands.
European Contact
The islands were first encountered by Europeans in the 18th century. In 1842, the islands became a French protectorate, and in 1961, they became a French overseas territory.
Modern History
Wallis and Futuna were granted the status of a French overseas collectivity in 2003. The islands have a unique political system that combines French administration with traditional Polynesian governance.
Economy
Key Economic Sectors
The economy of Wallis and Futuna is relatively small and primarily based on subsistence agriculture, fishing, and remittances from overseas.
- Agriculture: Major crops include coconuts, taro, yams, and bananas.
- Fishing: Fishing is an important source of food and income for local communities.
- Remittances: Many residents work abroad, particularly in New Caledonia, and send money back to their families.
Culture
Language
The official languages of Wallis and Futuna are French and the indigenous Polynesian languages Wallisian (Uvean) and Futunan.
Traditions and Festivals
Wallis and Futuna have a rich Polynesian cultural heritage, with traditional music, dance, and ceremonies playing a central role in community life. Important festivals include the celebration of Saint Peter Chanel, the patron saint of Oceania, and various local religious and cultural events.
Tourism
Tourism is limited in Wallis and Futuna due to its remote location and limited infrastructure. However, the islands offer unique cultural experiences and natural beauty for adventurous travelers.
Western Sahara
Geography and Climate
Western Sahara is a disputed territory located in North Africa, bordered by Morocco to the north, Algeria to the northeast, Mauritania to the east and south, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west.
Climate
Western Sahara has a desert climate, characterized by very little rainfall, extreme temperatures, and strong winds. The coastal areas have milder temperatures compared to the interior desert regions.
Major Regions
- Laayoune: The largest city and administrative center of the territory.
- Dakhla: A coastal city known for its fishing industry and tourism potential.
- Tifariti: Located in the eastern part of the territory, under the control of the Polisario Front.
History
Ancient History
The region has been inhabited by Berber-speaking nomadic tribes for centuries. It has a rich history of trade and cultural exchange across the Sahara.
Colonial Period
In the late 19th century, Spain colonized Western Sahara, establishing it as Spanish Sahara. The territory remained under Spanish control until 1975.
Modern History
In 1975, Spain withdrew from Western Sahara, leading to a conflict between Morocco, Mauritania, and the indigenous Sahrawi people represented by the Polisario Front. Mauritania withdrew in 1979, but the conflict between Morocco and the Polisario Front continues, with the territory remaining disputed.
Economy
Key Economic Sectors
Western Sahara’s economy is underdeveloped, with key sectors including phosphate mining, fishing, and pastoral nomadism.
- Phosphate Mining: The region has significant phosphate deposits, which are a major source of revenue.
- Fishing: The Atlantic coastline provides rich fishing grounds.
- Pastoral Nomadism: Traditional herding of camels, goats, and sheep remains an important livelihood for many Sahrawis.
Culture
Language
The official languages of Western Sahara are Arabic and Spanish, with Hassaniya Arabic and Berber languages commonly spoken.
Traditions and Festivals
Sahrawi culture is deeply rooted in nomadic traditions, with music, poetry, and storytelling playing central roles. Important cultural events include traditional weddings, religious celebrations, and the annual Sahara International Film Festival.
Tourism
Tourism in Western Sahara is limited due to the ongoing conflict and lack of infrastructure. However, the region’s unique desert landscapes and cultural heritage attract a small number of adventurous travelers.
