Bridgetown, 30 November 2021 (TDI): On November 30, 1966, Barbados gained full independence and became a Commonwealth realm with Elizabeth II as the Queen of Barbados. Today, on its 55th independence Anniversary, the country declared itself a republic and freed itself from the British monarchy.
The World’s Newest Republic
The Southeastern Caribbean Island became the world’s newest republic last night, with hundreds of people cheering at the Chamberlain Bridge in Bridgetown. Although the country announced independence from the Royal British ties, the Island nation still remains a part of the Commonwealth. Dame Sandra Mason was sworn in as the nation’s first President during a ceremony which was also attended by Prince Charles of Wales, and the renowned Barbadian music icon, Rihanna.
In addition, Prime Minister Mia Mottley of the country’s Labour Party declared Rihanna as the ‘national hero’ of Barbados. The people of Barbados celebrated the occasion with music and cultural performances. There was a 21-salute gunshot in the air to honor President Sandra Mason and the country’s transition to a republic, which came as a historic and symbolic decision for the island.
Pride of Nationhood: Declaration of the Republic and Installation of the President of Barbados https://t.co/ed0w9vvwJd
— Mia Amor Mottley (@miaamormottley) November 30, 2021
Historical Background
Barbados is one of the easternmost Caribbean island nations in the Americas region. The first people to come to this Island were adventurers who traveled down Canada and the region of northern South America, as recounted by the archaeological investigations. Later, they made Barbados their ‘home’ but did not leave any traces behind.
The culture and history of Barbados have been evolving ever since. Many people before the 1600s tried settling on the Island to preserve their culture but the Island suffered a long history of occupation by different tribes and countries. It was no later than 1625 when Barbados was occupied and claimed by the Britishers, who then ruled the nation for almost four hundred years. Slaves were brought in and most of the land was deforested for the plantation of tobacco and cotton.
Later in 1630, sugar cane was founded in Barbados which gave birth to the idea of establishing sugar factories on the island. In 1639, the colonists formed a House of Assembly making Barbados the third parliamentary democracy in the world. However, it gained internal autonomy in 1961, followed by complete independence in 1966. Since Barbados had to maintain its ties to the British monarchy, it became a part of the Commonwealth nations.
Geographical Location
Barbados is an island country that lies in the southeastern part of the Caribbean. The island is located 100 miles east of Saint Vincent and Grenadines. It constitutes a roughly triangular shape and measures around 20 miles from northwest to southeast and 15 miles from east to the west at its widest point. Furthermore, Bridgetown is the state’s capital and comprises the island’s main seaport. The geographic position of Barbados has greatly influenced the island’s culture, history, and economic aspects.
People of Barbados
The Caribbean Island is home to many ethnic groups. There are people of different descents. For instance, Africans and mixed European Africans constitute more than nine-tenths of the population. A small portion of the population comprises British Europeans, and people from the Indian subcontinent. Moreover, a small group of Lebanese, Chinese, Americans, and Syrians reside in the country as well. The official language of the country is English, however, an atypical form of English called ‘Bajan’ is also spoken in the country.
Demographic Trends
During the mid-20th century, the island had a high growth rate of the population which resulted in overpopulation. However, by the 21st century, the growth rate was controlled through the successful implementation of the Family Planning program in the country. Another important factor behind population control was the steady emigration to Britain and other parts of the Caribbean.
Economy and Resources
The island has a good and open market-oriented economy. It also constitutes a high per capita income where a great amount of income is received in the form of remittance from the Barbadians living abroad. The country has always been rich in agriculture. In the mid-20th century, Barbados’ economy was dominated by sugar production. However, at present, the nation has observed considerable growth in food products such as vegetables, and fruits for local consumption. In addition, Barbados holds small deposits of natural gas and crude oil which fulfill one-third of the island’s energy needs. On the other hand, the island’s tourism sector also helps in generating huge revenues.
Government and Politics
The 1966 constitution of Barbados introduced a governmental structure based on the British parliamentary system. Before the country’s recent transition to a republic, the British monarch served as the head of state and was locally represented by a Governor-General. The Prime Minister is generally the head of government and leader of the nation’s largest political party. There are two major political parties in Barbados. The ‘Barbados Labour Party’ was founded in 1938 whereas the ‘Democratic Labor Party’ was formed in 1955. All citizens of the country, above 18 years of age, constitute the right to vote.
Cultural Life
The majority of the cultural facilities of Barbados lie in its capital, Bridgetown. For instance, the Barbados Museum, which holds the state’s natural history, was established in 1933. The island nation also contains an Art Gallery full of historical collections. In addition, Barbados comprises dramatic groups and dancing schools, besides holding art exhibitions and a popular jazz festival every year in January.
The country also arranges a cultural festival named ‘Crop Over’ during summers. The festival has its origins in sugar cane harvest celebrations, which used to take place before the mid-twentieth century. However, in the 1970s, the celebrations regained popularity due to the increasing number of cultural festivals, music, and arts in Barbados.
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