History: French Guiana was first settled by the French in the 17th century as a penal colony. Over time, the colony's population grew as free settlers arrived, and the economy shifted from agriculture to mining, with gold and other minerals becoming important sources of income. French Guiana played a strategic role in World War II, with the United States establishing a military base there to counter German U-boat attacks in the Atlantic. In 1946, French Guiana became an overseas department of France, and in the decades that followed, the French government invested heavily in infrastructure and social programs to support the region's development.

Culture: French Guiana's population is diverse, with people of African, European, and Amerindian descent, as well as immigrants from neighboring countries such as Brazil and Suriname. The region's culture is shaped by this diversity, with a mix of French, African, and indigenous traditions. Music and dance are important cultural expressions in French Guiana, with genres such as zouk and samba playing a prominent role. The region is also known for its culinary traditions, which include dishes such as cassava bread, acoupa fish, and black pudding. French Guiana's natural environment is an important part of its cultural heritage, with the region's rainforests, rivers, and beaches providing inspiration for art, music, and storytelling.