Senegal is home to several internationally renowned musicians and artists. Other aspects of Senegalese culture have traveled into the larger world as well, most notably Senghor's espousal of Negritude—a literary movement that flourished in the 1930s, '40s, and '50s and that emphasized African values and heritage.

Senegalese Cultures Dakar, its capital and largest city, is known for its vibrant nightlife and busting markets. Senegal also offers stunning beaches and scenic national parks with hundreds of species of birds. The country is home to many diverse ethnic groups, each with its own history, language, and culture.

It owes its name to the Senegal River, which borders it to the east and north. The climate is typically Sahelian, though there is a rainy season. Senegal covers a land area of almost 197,000 square kilometres (76,000 sq mi) and has a population of around 18 million.