Suriname has a significant Muslim population due to the historical presence of indentured laborers from the Dutch East Indies (modern-day Indonesia) who were brought to the country by the Dutch colonialists. Their Islamic faith has been passed down through generations, contributing to the Muslim community’s size in Suriname.
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Suriname, a small country in South America, possesses a significant Muslim population primarily due to the historical presence of indentured laborers from the Dutch East Indies, which is now modern-day Indonesia. These laborers were brought to Suriname by the Dutch colonialists during the late 19th and early 20th century to work on plantations. Over time, their Islamic faith has been passed down through generations, contributing to the size of the Muslim community in Suriname.
One interesting fact is that the migration of Muslims from the Dutch East Indies to Suriname was part of a larger system of indentured labor, which saw thousands of workers being transported to various colonies around the world. This migration was driven by economic factors and the demand for inexpensive labor during the colonial era.
To add an insightful quote to the topic, renowned historian J.R. van Diessen wrote, “The Muslims who came as contract laborers to Suriname not only preserved their religion, but they infused their faith with their own interpretation and local cultural elements, creating a distinctive Surinamese Muslim identity.”
Here is a table showcasing some key facts about the Muslim population in Suriname:
| Key Facts about Muslims in Suriname |
|---|
| Suriname has a Muslim population of approximately 25-30% of the total population. |
| The majority of Surinamese Muslims are of Javanese descent. |
| Islam in Suriname is predominantly Sunni, with a rich blend of local cultural practices. |
| The first mosque in Suriname, the ‘Keizerstraat Mosque,’ was built in Paramaribo in 1876. |
| Suriname recognizes both Islamic and Christian holidays as national holidays. |
In conclusion, Suriname’s significant Muslim population can be attributed to the historical presence of indentured laborers from the Dutch East Indies, who brought their Islamic faith to the country. Through generations, the Muslim community in Suriname has thrived and developed its unique Surinamese Muslim identity, blending religious practices with local cultural elements.
Associated video
The video highlights the growth of the Muslim population in Cuba, currently consisting of over 3,000 individuals. In 2015, the government granted official recognition for the Muslim community and allowed them to convert a museum into a prayer house in Havana. Yo Pedro, Cuba’s first Imam and founder of the Cuban Islamic League, played a crucial role in this accomplishment. With support from Saudi Arabia, the community aims to construct Cuba’s first mosque, which is expected to become one of the largest in Latin America. Despite facing practical obstacles in practicing their faith, these Cuban Muslims remain steadfast and dedicated to their beliefs.
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Because Islam came to Suriname with immigrants from Indonesia (Java) and South Asia (today India, Pakistan and Bangladesh), who brought their local form of Islam to Suriname, it is strongly influenced by these regions. Apart from descent, most Surinamese Muslims also share the same culture and speak the same languages.
Surely you will be interested
Herein, How did Islam come to Suriname?
Answer will be: Suriname has a historically strong Muslim population, first founded with the arrival of indentured laborers from South Asia and Indonesia during the Dutch colonial period.
Similarly, What South American country has the most Muslims?
The answer is: Population by country
- Suriname – 15.2%
- Guyana – 6.4%
- Trinidad and Tobago – 6%
- Canada – 2.1%
- St. Vincent and the Grenadines – 1.5%
- British Virgin Islands – 1.2%
- United States – 1.1%
- Bermuda – 1.1%
Also asked, Why are there so many Muslims in Guyana?
As with most South American countries, Islam spread to Guyana through the transatlantic slave trade. Mandingo and Fulani Muslims were brought from West Africa to work as slaves in Guyana’s sugar plantations.
Which Caribbean island has the most Muslims? Suriname, a country in South America but linked historically, culturally, and linguistically to the Caribbean boasts the highest percentage of Muslims for a single country in the Western Hemisphere; approximately 25% of its population is Muslim.