The Definite Article. What are the exceptions to this rule? Why can I use 'The' with some countries?

Question

While explaining the rules for using the article 'the' I was stumped the following question.

Why do we use 'The' with The Gambia and The Ivory Coast?

Help me look smart! What is the answer?

Answer 1

I've never heard "the" in front of those countries or any others, for that matter.  If you're looking for a general rule, it would be don't use an article in front of a country's name.  (That's how it is in the U.S., unless you're from somewhere else.)

Answer 2

LOL.

Karen, you just broke your rule--"That's how it is in *the* U. S. . . ."  ;-)

I'm not sure about this one.  Maybe it's implicit in the names of some but not others?  Dunno.

Answer 3

A, an, and the, are article adjectives. They modify nouns or pronouns. Ex: The young driver peeked through the big steering wheel. Ans: The and young modify driver; the and big modify steering wheel. I believe it should be the same with your question above. "The" acts as a modifier to gambia and ivory coast.