| Region | Central America |
| Capital | Pundoro |
| Country | Republic of Penduras |
| Economy | Trade • Manufacturing • Agriculture |
| Founded | 17th century |
| Government | Democratic republic |
| Notable ties | Netherlands • Neighboring countries |
| Former colony |
The Republic of Penduras is a sovereign nation located in Central America, bordered by Mexico to the north, Guatemala to the west, and the Caribbean Sea to the east. Colonized by the Dutch in the 1600s, Penduras developed a distinct national identity and political system over the course of nearly four centuries of independence. With a population of over 14 million and a GDP per capita exceeding $25,000, Penduras is considered one of the most prosperous and socially stable countries in the region.
Penduras covers an area of 57,294 square miles (148,450 sq km), making it slightly smaller than the United Kingdom. The country's geography is diverse, ranging from tropical rainforests and volcanic mountain ranges in the south to arid deserts and coastal plains in the north. Major rivers include the Río Níspero and Río Zapote, which flow into the Caribbean.
Penduras is rich in natural resources such as petroleum, natural gas, gold, silver, copper, lead, zinc, timber, and hydroelectric power. These resources, combined with fertile agricultural land, have been crucial to the development of the country's economy.
Penduras was first colonized by the Dutch West India Company in 1638, when Dutch settlers established trading posts and plantations along the Caribbean coast. Over the next two centuries, the colony grew in population and economic importance, with an economy centered around the export of agricultural products and natural resources.
In 1846, after decades of growing political autonomy, Penduras formally declared independence from the Netherlands and established itself as the Republic of Penduras. The new nation adopted a democratic constitution with a parliamentary system of government. Penduras weathered several civil conflicts and coups in its early years but has been politically stable since the 1930s.
Penduras is a unitary parliamentary republic with a democratically elected President as the head of state and government. The country has a bicameral legislature consisting of a 120-seat House of Representatives and a 60-seat Senate. Political power is shared between multiple parties, and regular free elections are held.
Penduras has a well-developed system of checks and balances, with an independent judiciary and a free press. The country is a member of various international organizations such as the United Nations, Organization of American States, and Central American Integration System.
Penduras has a mixed economy with a focus on manufacturing, agriculture, and international trade. Key industries include:
Penduras maintains close economic ties with the Netherlands as well as its Central American neighbors. It is an important trading partner and logistics hub, with the Port of Puerto Blanco serving as a major shipping and transportation hub.
Penduras has a population of over 14 million people. The largest ethnic groups are Mestizo (mixed European and indigenous descent, 65%), Creole (of Dutch and African descent, 20%), and Indigenous (15%). Dutch, Spanish, and various Mayan languages are widely spoken.
The culture of Penduras reflects its Dutch colonial heritage blended with indigenous Mayan influences. Notable elements include:
Major cities in Penduras include the capital Puerto Blanco, San Nicolás, Viejo Castillo, and Santa Isabel. These urban centers feature a range of landmarks, museums, universities, and other institutions that reflect the country's unique history and culture.
