French Guiana, located on the northeastern coast of South America, has a rich history influenced by various cultures. Originally inhabited by indigenous peoples, it was claimed by the French in the 17th century. The region became a center for sugar and coffee plantations, relying heavily on enslaved labor until the abolition of slavery in 1848. In the late 19th century, French Guiana gained notoriety as a penal colony, housing political prisoners and criminals, including the infamous Dreyfus Affair case. Today, it remains an overseas department of France, with a diverse population and a unique blend of cultures, reflecting its complex historical legacy.