Barbados declares nationhood as a republic, cutting British colonial ties
By: Taylor Orcutt
The country of Barbados declared itself a republic on Nov. 30, 2021, cutting ceremonial ties to the British crown.
Barbados has a rich history of indigenous peoples.
According to the African American Registry (AAREG), the Kalinago people were one of the dominant groups of the Caribbean. The Kalinago inhabited South America, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, Dominica and other islands.
Barbados is deeply rooted in the painful history of European colonialism and enslavement as well.
According to Family Search, from 1620-1640, much labor was worked by English, Irish and Scottish indentured servants.
In 1627, the first permanent English colonists settled in Barbados, developing a wealthy sugar colony. The colony of Barbados became the trading center of enslaved peoples.
The trading of enslaved peoples was outlawed by England in 1807, decades before the American Civil War. According to Family Search, final emancipation occurred over a period of years from 1833.
The history of enslavement remains a dark spot in the tumultuous history of English colonialism and the United States. However, recent history shines a hopeful light on Barbados.
On Nov. 30, 1966, Barbados declared independence from Britain, but kept the crown as the ceremonial head of state.
Barbados elected their first president, Sandra Mason, exactly 55 years later.
"Barbadians want a Barbadian head of state,” said President Mason in a speech, according to NPR.
“This is the ultimate statement of confidence in who we are and what we are capable of achieving,” the President said.
Prince Charles was in attendance at President Mason’s inauguration as well.
“The people of this island forged their path with extraordinary fortitude,” said Prince Charles, acknowledging the effects of slavery on Barbados according to CBS News.
Other memorable figures were at the inauguration, including Barbados citizen Rihanna.
According to CBS News, the singer was declared a National Hero by Prime Minister Mia Mottley.
The pride of nationhood does not overshadow the challenges Barbados may navigate in this “complex, fractured and turbulent world," said President Mason in her inaugural address according to CBS News.
No matter the struggles, the Barbadians are hopeful for the future of the nation.
“Republic Barbados has set sail on her maiden voyage,” said President Mason. “The time has come to fully leave our colonial past behind.”
Photo Credit: OnTheWorldMap “Barbados Map”