Formerly
the British protectorate of Bechuanaland, Botswana adopted its new name
upon independence in 1966. Four decades of uninterrupted civilian
leadership, progressive social policies, and significant capital
investment have created one of the most dynamic economies in Africa.
Mineral extraction, principally diamond mining, dominates economic
activity, though tourism is a growing sector due to the country's
conservation practices and extensive nature preserves. Setswana,
Kalanga, Sekgalagadi, and
English
are spoken.