Countries Starting with I

How many countries starting with letter I? There are 9 countries that start with the letter “I.” Below is a comprehensive analysis of each:

1. Iceland

Iceland, an island nation in the North Atlantic Ocean, is renowned for its dramatic landscapes that include volcanoes, geysers, hot springs, and lava fields. The country is sparsely populated, with most of its inhabitants living in the capital, Reykjavik, which runs on geothermal power and is home to the national museums and opera. Iceland’s history is deeply rooted in Viking traditions, and its literature is particularly noted for the sagas written in the medieval period. Known for its strong welfare state, Iceland ranks high in economic stability, equality, and social unity. The nation is also noted for its progressiveness and environmental consciousness. It is a leader in renewable energy production, particularly geothermal energy.

  • Continent: Europe
  • Capital: Reykjavik
  • Largest City: Reykjavik
  • Population: Approximately 356,000
  • Area: 103,000 square kilometers
  • Official Language: Icelandic
  • Currency: Icelandic króna (ISK)
  • Political System: Parliamentary republic

2. India

India is a vast South Asian country with diverse terrain – from Himalayan peaks to Indian Ocean coastline – and history reaching back 5 millennia. It is the second-most populous country, rich in cultural diversity, including multiple religions, languages, and traditions. India is known for its classical arts, dance, music, and cuisine. The economic landscape is a mix of traditional village farming, modern agriculture, handicrafts, a wide range of modern industries, and numerous services. Poverty, corruption, and discrimination continue to be significant issues, despite economic advancements. India plays a crucial role in global affairs and is a founding member of several international organizations, including the United Nations, G20, and BRICS.

  • Continent: Asia
  • Capital: New Delhi
  • Largest City: Mumbai
  • Population: Approximately 1.37 billion
  • Area: 3,287,263 square kilometers
  • Official Language: Hindi, English (among others)
  • Currency: Indian rupee (INR)
  • Political System: Federal parliamentary constitutional republic

3. Indonesia

Indonesia, the world’s largest archipelago, is made up of thousands of volcanic islands and is known for its beaches, volcanoes, Komodo dragons, and jungles sheltering elephants, orangutans, and tigers. It is a country rich in cultural diversity, home to hundreds of ethnic groups speaking many different languages. Indonesia is known for its vibrant cultural heritage that includes traditional music, dance, and puppetry. The economy is as diverse as its geography and culture, with a mix of the agricultural, manufacturing, and service sectors. Indonesia is a member of the G20 and plays a significant role in regional geopolitics and the global economy.

  • Continent: Asia
  • Capital: Jakarta
  • Largest City: Jakarta
  • Population: Approximately 273 million
  • Area: 1,904,569 square kilometers
  • Official Language: Indonesian
  • Currency: Indonesian rupiah (IDR)
  • Political System: Presidential republic

4. Iran

Iran, formerly known as Persia until 1935, is a country in Western Asia. It is home to one of the world’s oldest civilizations, beginning with the formation of the Elamite kingdoms in the fourth millennium BCE. Iran’s rich cultural legacy is reflected in its preserved architecture, literature, music, and art. The Islamic Revolution in 1979 established Iran as an Islamic republic. Today, Iran has significant influence in international energy security and world markets due to its large reserves of fossil fuels. It is a regional power, with political, economic, and military influence in the Middle East.

  • Continent: Asia
  • Capital: Tehran
  • Largest City: Tehran
  • Population: Approximately 83 million
  • Area: 1,648,195 square kilometers
  • Official Language: Persian
  • Currency: Iranian rial (IRR)
  • Political System: Islamic republic

5. Iraq

Iraq, known historically as Mesopotamia, is often referred to as the “cradle of civilization,” where early cities like Babylon and Nineveh flourished. Modern Iraq encompasses much of this ancient landscape, which is now marred by decades of conflict. Iraq’s recent history has been dominated by warfare, including the long-standing authoritarian rule of Saddam Hussein and the 2003 U.S.-led invasion that toppled him. The country is rich in heritage and has significant reserves of oil, which dominate its economy. Political instability, sectarian conflict, and the fight against ISIS have created significant challenges for Iraq’s recovery.

  • Continent: Asia
  • Capital: Baghdad
  • Largest City: Baghdad
  • Population: Approximately 40 million
  • Area: 438,317 square kilometers
  • Official Language: Arabic, Kurdish
  • Currency: Iraqi dinar (IQD)
  • Political System: Federal parliamentary republic

6. Ireland

Ireland, an island nation located off the coast of England and Wales, has a landscape characterized by rolling green hills and historic castles. Its culture has had a significant impact on other cultures, particularly in literature and music. Known as the “Emerald Isle” for its lush greenery and misty weather, Ireland has moved from a primarily agricultural economy towards technology and pharmaceuticals in recent decades, experiencing rapid economic growth that earned it the nickname “Celtic Tiger.” Despite its economic leaps, Ireland faced significant challenges during the late-2000s recession but has since recovered.

  • Continent: Europe
  • Capital: Dublin
  • Largest City: Dublin
  • Population: Approximately 4.9 million
  • Area: 70,273 square kilometers
  • Official Language: Irish, English
  • Currency: Euro (EUR)
  • Political System: Parliamentary republic

7. Israel

Israel is a country in the Middle East, located on the Mediterranean Sea. Known for its biblical roots, it is considered the biblical Holy Land by Jews, Christians, and Muslims. Since its establishment in 1948, Israel has been involved in multiple conflicts with its Arab neighbors, contributing to long-standing geopolitical tensions. Despite its relatively small area, Israel is diverse, from the Negev desert in the south to the lush Galilee in the north. It has a strong economy, advanced technology, and a vibrant cultural scene. Israel is a leader in software, computing, and medical industries, and its technological innovations are internationally recognized.

  • Continent: Asia
  • Capital: Jerusalem
  • Largest City: Jerusalem
  • Population: Approximately 9 million
  • Area: 20,770 square kilometers
  • Official Language: Hebrew
  • Currency: Israeli new shekel (ILS)
  • Political System: Parliamentary republic

8. Italy

Italy, a European country with a long Mediterranean coastline, has left a powerful mark on Western culture and cuisine. Its capital, Rome, is home to the Vatican as well as landmark art and ancient ruins. Other major cities include Florence, with Renaissance masterpieces such as Michelangelo’s “David” and Brunelleschi’s Duomo; Venice, the city of canals; and Milan, Italy’s fashion capital. Italy’s landscape ranges from the rugged Alps and Apennines mountain ranges to the scenic Tuscan hills. Known for its regional diversity, Italy has a robust economy, a rich cultural legacy, and is a founding member of the European Union.

  • Continent: Europe
  • Capital: Rome
  • Largest City: Rome
  • Population: Approximately 60 million
  • Area: 301,340 square kilometers
  • Official Language: Italian
  • Currency: Euro (EUR)
  • Political System: Parliamentary republic

9. Ivory Coast

Officially known as Côte d’Ivoire, Ivory Coast is located in West Africa. It is the world’s largest producer and exporter of cocoa beans, which are integral to its economy. The country has experienced periods of political instability, including two civil wars in the early 21st century. However, it has made significant strides towards recovery, showing substantial economic growth. Its cultural life reflects a vibrant tapestry of ethnic groups and traditions, and despite the challenges, Ivory Coast remains a key player in the economic landscape of West Africa.

  • Continent: Africa
  • Capital: Yamoussoukro (political), Abidjan (economic)
  • Largest City: Abidjan
  • Population: Approximately 26 million
  • Area: 322,463 square kilometers
  • Official Language: French
  • Currency: West African CFA franc (XOF)
  • Political System: Presidential republic