As in most of Central America, very few pure indigenous groups remain. There are an estimated 45,000 Miskito Indians, and an English-speaking black population on the Caribbean coast. Poverty is the primary cause of social tension; whites still have the best opportunities.
Honduras has one of the most unequal societies in the region: 4% of people own 60% of the land. Rural poverty and strong Roman Catholicism (93% are Roman Catholic) mean that the family is a powerful unifying force. Women's status is low; many work in domestic service.
