Final answer:
Suriname is the smallest country in South America due to historical colonial divisions and international treaties. It has a diverse population and economy based on agriculture and natural resources, with a focus on ecotourism. Only Uruguay is smaller, and French Guiana, while geographically smaller, is not independent.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question of why is Suriname the smallest country in South America relates to historical, geographical, and political factors. Suriname, previously known as Dutch Guiana, gained independence in 1975 and is the smallest independent country on the South American continent in terms of physical area. This status is based on the historical division of colonial territories and subsequent international agreements. Its economy, which relies on agriculture and natural resources such as bauxite, gold, oil, and fishing, is bolstered by efforts to conserve its rich biodiversity and create an ecotourism market.
Suriname's population is ethnically diverse, which includes East Indian, Creole, Indonesian, African, Amerindian, Chinese, and European heritage. Ethnic and social complexities, along with historical border disputes with neighbors, have influenced its national identity and development. Despite its size, Suriname possesses a varied cultural landscape and natural resources that remain central to its economy and national interests.
Uruguay is the only other South American country smaller than Suriname, but it is noteworthy that French Guiana, while geographically smaller, is not an independent country but a French department. Factors such as colonial history, ethnic distribution, political turmoil, and economic activities significantly contribute to the status and challenges faced by Suriname, the smallest South American country.