Slovakia, a landlocked country in Central Europe, has a rich history and a diverse landscape. Bordered by Austria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, and Ukraine, Slovakia is known for its breathtaking mountains, with its Carpathian range spanning its northern region. The country achieved independence on January 1, 1993, after the collapse of the communist regime that controlled Czechoslovakia since 1948. Since then, Slovakia has established itself as a parliamentary democracy, with a president as the chief of state and a prime minister as the head of government. As a member of the European Union (EU), Slovakia participates in the benefits of a mixed economic system, combining private freedom with centralized economic planning and government regulation. The country’s population, estimated to be approximately 5.4 million as of 2023, calls Bratislava its capital. Throughout its history, Slovakia has sought to avoid being seen as merely an autonomous region within Czechoslovakia, endeavoring to assert its sovereignty and unique identity. From its distinct literary language to its deep-rooted cultural traditions, Slovakia continues to evolve and thrive as an independent nation in the heart of Europe.