MCQ Detailed View

Freetown is the capital and largest city of Sierra Leone, a coastal nation in West Africa. Located on a peninsula along the Atlantic Ocean, Freetown serves as the country’s political, economic, and cultural hub. It was founded in 1792 by the Sierra Leone Company as a settlement for freed African American, Caribbean, and Liberated African slaves, making it one of the earliest modern cities in sub‑Saharan Africa built on the principles of freedom and return.

Over the centuries, Freetown has grown into a busy port city known for its natural harbor—one of the world’s largest deep‑water harbors—facilitating regional trade in commodities such as bauxite, rutile, and agricultural products. The city’s diverse population reflects its historic role as a refuge for different ethnic groups and cultures.

Key facts about Freetown:

• Country: Sierra Leone


• Founded: 1792 as a home for freed slaves


• Population: Over 1 million residents


• Geography: Situated on a coastal peninsula with surrounding hills and Atlantic beaches


• Climate: Tropical monsoon climate with distinct wet and dry seasons

Freetown houses Sierra Leone’s main governmental institutions, including the State House, Parliament, and Supreme Court. It is also home to Fourah Bay College (established 1827), the oldest Western‑style university in West Africa, which played a pivotal role in educating generations of African leaders and scholars.

The city’s economy relies heavily on its port facilities, fishing industry, and growing tourism sector. Popular attractions include the historic Cotton Tree, the National Railway Museum, Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary, and nearby white‑sand beaches like Lumley and River Number Two. Despite challenges such as rapid urbanization and past civil unrest, Freetown remains a symbol of resilience and cultural fusion.

Today, Freetown’s blend of historic architecture, bustling markets, and varied communities highlights Sierra Leone’s rich heritage and its ongoing efforts toward development and prosperity.