Lethem is a town in the Rupununi Savannah region of Guyana, located in the far south of the country. It is the capital of the Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo Region and the largest settlement in the region. Lethem has a population of around 4,000 people, most of whom are of Amerindian descent. The town is situated on the Brazilian border, and is the gateway to the Rupununi Savannah region.
Lethem was founded in the late 19th century by a group of settlers from the Caribbean island of Barbados. These settlers were mainly of African descent, and they established a settlement on the banks of the Takutu River. The settlement was named Lethem after the Barbadian town of Lethem, which was itself named after a local plant.
The settlement grew quickly, and by the early 20th century it had become a bustling trading post. The town was also a major stop on the cattle trail from Brazil to the Caribbean. In the 1950s, the town was connected to the rest of Guyana by a road, and it has since become a major hub for the Rupununi Savannah region.
Today, Lethem is a vibrant town with a strong sense of community and identity. The town is home to a number of small businesses, including a number of guesthouses and restaurants. The town is also home to a number of Amerindian communities, such as the Macushi, Wapishana, and Patamona.
Lethem is also known for its vibrant cultural life. The town has an active cultural scene, with a number of festivals and events throughout the year. The town is home to a number of Amerindian cultural centers, such as the Macushi Cultural Center and the Wapishana Cultural Center.
Lethem is also home to a number of historical sites. The town is home to the Lethem Fort, which was built by the British in the 19th century to protect the town from Brazilian raids. The fort was decommissioned in the 20th century and is now a museum. The town is also home to the Lethem Cemetery, which is the final resting place of many of the town's early settlers.
Lethem is a fascinating town with a rich and diverse history. The town is a gateway to the Rupununi Savannah region and a great place to explore the culture and history of Guyana.