Myanmar (Burmese: မြန်မာ; MLCTS: Mranma, pronounced [mjÉ™mà ]), officially the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, also known as Burma (the official name until 1989), is a country in Southeast Asia. It is the largest country by area in Mainland Southeast Asia and has a population of about 55 million. It is bordered by Bangladesh and India to its northwest, China to its northeast, Laos and Thailand to its east and southeast, and the Andaman Sea and the Bay of Bengal to its south and southwest. The country’s capital city is Naypyidaw, and its largest city is Yangon (formerly Rangoon).
Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, is a Southeast Asian country bordered by India, Bangladesh, China, Laos, and Thailand. It has a rich history, diverse culture, and a complex political landscape.
**Geography**: Myanmar is characterized by a mix of mountainous regions, plains, and rivers. The Irrawaddy River is the country’s principal river, and the country is home to the famous Inle Lake and the picturesque Shan Hills.
**Capital and Major Cities**: The capital city is Naypyidaw, which was established in 2005. Prior to that, Yangon (formerly Rangoon) was the capital and remains the largest city and economic hub.
**Ethnic Diversity**: Myanmar is home to a multitude of ethnic groups, each with its own language and culture. The major ethnic groups include the Burmans, Shan, Karen, Rakhine, and Mon, among many others.
**Political History**: Myanmar has experienced significant political turmoil over the decades. After gaining independence from British rule in 1948, the country faced a series of military coups, the most notable being in 1962. In recent years, there was a brief period of democratic reform starting in 2011, but the military coup in February 2021 has led to widespread unrest and protests, affecting the country’s political landscape once again.
**Human Rights Issues**: Myanmar has faced international criticism for its human rights record, particularly regarding the treatment of the Rohingya minority and other ethnic groups. The Rohingya crisis, which escalated in 2017, led to mass displacement and severe humanitarian issues.
**Economy**: The economy of Myanmar is largely based on agriculture, but it also includes sectors such as mining, energy, and tourism. Economic development has been uneven, with many areas still facing poverty and underdevelopment.
**Culture and Religion**: Buddhism is the predominant religion in Myanmar, shaping the country’s cultural practices, festivals, and daily life. The country is known for its stunning temples, such as those in Bagan and the Schwedagon Pagoda in Yangon.
**Tourism**: Myanmar has become an increasingly popular tourist destination due to its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and historical sites. However, the political situation has caused fluctuations in tourism.
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