This African country, settled by returning black slaves, speaks English, uses the dollar for currency, and has a capital city named for a U.S. President. Name the country and the capital.

The West African nation of Liberia holds a unique place in history, founded in the early 19th century as a homeland (Review) for freed and free-born African Americans. This initiative was primarily driven by the American Colonization Society (ACS), an organization that believed black people would face better opportunities in Africa than in the United States. Between 1822 and the American Civil War, thousands of individuals relocated to Liberia, carrying with them aspects of American culture and traditions.

Liberia's strong ties to the United States are evident in several key aspects of its national identity. English serves as the official language of the country, and its currency is the Liberian Dollar, reflecting the enduring influence of its American founders. The capital city, Monrovia, further underscores this connection, having been named in honor of James Monroe, the fifth U.S. President, who was a significant proponent of the colonization project. Originally known as Christopolis, the settlement was renamed Monrovia in 1824.

The nation declared its independence in 1847, becoming Africa's first democratic republic and its oldest continuously independent country. Despite the American role in its establishment, the United States did not officially recognize Liberia's sovereignty until 1862, partly due to domestic political complexities surrounding slavery. Liberia's history is a testament to the complex legacy of slavery and the aspirations for freedom and self-determination.