Download or read book Introduction to Madagascar written by Gilad James, PhD and published by Gilad James Mystery School. This book was released on with total page 56 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Madagascar is an island country located off the east coast of Africa in the Indian Ocean. It is the fourth largest island in the world and has a land area of 587,041 square kilometers. The capital and largest city of Madagascar is Antananarivo. The country is home to a unique and diverse range of flora and fauna, with over 80% of its wildlife being endemic species not found anywhere else in the world. The history of Madagascar has been shaped by its geographic isolation and the diverse groups of people who have settled on the island over the years. The earliest known settlers were Austronesian peoples who arrived around 350 BC. Later, Arab and African traders established settlements and introduced Islam to the island. In the 16th century, Madagascar became a haven for pirates, and in the 19th century, the island was colonized by the French. Today, Madagascar is one of the poorest countries in the world with a GDP per capita of about $1,500. However, the country's rich cultural heritage and natural resources make it a popular destination for tourists.