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Eritrea: Definition, Origin, and History of the Name

  1. Meaning: Eritrea is a country in Northeast Africa, bordering the Red Sea. It’s known for its diverse cultures and languages, a long coastline, and a history marked by both ancient trade connections and a prolonged struggle for independence, which it achieved from Ethiopia in 1993.
  2. Etymology and Origin: The name “Eritrea” is derived from the ancient Greek name for the Red Sea, “Erythra Thalassa,” meaning “Red Sea.” The Italian form of this name, “Eritrea,” was adopted in the 19th century when the country became an Italian colony. The term “Erythra” refers specifically to the red colour, a characteristic feature of the sea adjacent to the country.

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