Dutch Guiana, now known as Suriname, is a small country located on the northern coast of South America. It was formerly a Dutch colony and was known as Dutch Guiana until 1975 when it gained independence and changed its name to Suriname. The country is bordered by Guyana, Brazil, and French Guiana. It has a population of approximately 600, 000 people and its official language is Dutch. Suriname is a multi-ethnic society with a diverse population that includes people of African, East Indian, Chinese, and European descent.