a republic in N Africa, on the Mediterranean: settled by the Phoenicians in the 12th century bc; made a French protectorate in 1881 and gained independence in 1955. It consists chiefly of the Sahara in the south, a central plateau, and the Atlas Mountains in the north. Exports include textiles, petroleum, and phosphates. Official language: Arabic; French is also widely spoken. Official religion: Muslim. Currency: dinar. Capital: Tunis. Pop: 11 532 127 (2017 est). Area: 164 150 sq km (63 380 sq miles)