Barbados is an island Caribbean country and it celebrates its Independence Day annually on 30th November. The day commemorates the island country's independence from Britain after over 360 years as a British colony.
This is a very important day in the country and that's why it is celebrated with grand celebrations all across the country. Barbadians celebrate this day with full pride and patriotism for the country.
The Independence Day has become even more special ever since the Barbados became the republic which happened in last year only which saw the transition of Barbados from being a constitutional monarchy to a parliamentary republic.
| Event | Barbados Independence Day |
|---|---|
| Date | November 30, 2022 |
| Day | Wednesday |
| Significance | The day commemorates the island country's independence from Britain. |
| Observed by | Barbados |
Barbados Independence Day History:
Before the colonization period also the island has a long history of human settlements. Archeological evidence suggests humans may have first settled or visited the island circa 1600 BC. More permanent Amerindian settlement of Barbados dates to about the 4th to 7th centuries AD, by a group known as the Saladoid-Barrancoid. Settlements of Arawaks from South America appeared by around 800 AD and again in the 12th-13th century. The Kalinago (called "Caribs" by the Spanish) visited the island regularly, although there is no evidence of permanent settlement. As Europe expanded into the new world, Barbados became an English colony in the early part seventeenth century, with the first settlement established in 1627.
Barbados became an important producer of sugar cane and a key strategic location in the region for Britain. It is notable that Barbados was the only Caribbean island that didn't change hands during the colonial period. The introduction of sugar cane from Dutch Brazil in 1640 completely transformed society, the economy and the physical landscape. Barbados eventually had one of the world's biggest sugar industries. And this led to the British bringing and settling the enslaved Africans on the island. The harsh conditions endured by the slaves resulted in several planned slave rebellions, the largest of which was Bussa's rebellion in 1816 which was rapidly suppressed by the colonial authorities.
In 1819, another slave revolt broke out on Easter Day. The revolt was put down in blood, with heads being displayed on stakes. Nevertheless, the brutality of the repression shocked even England and strengthened the abolitionist movement. Growing opposition to slavery led to its abolition in the British Empire in 1833. After the end of slavery, the relationship between Barbados and the United Kingdom has always been peaceful, the first stirring of independence began in the early twentieth century. Political changes towards independence began in 1949 and Barbados became fully self-governing in 1961. Sir Grantley Adams, founder of the Barbados Labour Party and the UK government then began negotiations for independence.
Independence was granted on November 30th 1966 with the passing of the Barbados Independence Act 1966 by the Parliament of the United Kingdom. With the passing of the Act, Barbados became the fourth English-speaking country in the West Indies to gain full independence from the United Kingdom. The independence ceremony was accompanied by the first hoisting of the Barbados national flag, and the first rendition of the national anthem. Errol Barrow became the first Prime Minister of Barbados. Barbados became part of the Commonwealth of Nations, with Elizabeth II remaining as head of state until Barbados became a republic in 2021. Barbados remains a member of the Commomwealth.
Barbados Independence Day Significance:
Barbados becoming an independent nation, now meant that Britain, no longer controlled the affairs of the country. It was now the responsibility of the newly elected Prime Minister and the locally elected Cabinet. Independence also meant that a Constitution, symbols, emblems, an army, and passports had to be developed for the country. As an independent nation, Barbados assigns Ambassadors overseas who represent the country. They sign treaties on behalf of Barbados and become members of various international organisations. This is important, as it gives the country equal rights on various issues relating to international trade, policies and treaties.
Barbados is a small Caribbean island country with a very small population of only about 300,000 people! The capital and largest city of the country is Bridgetown while English is the official language. Over 90% of the population is Black but the country has many diverse racial and ethnic groups too. Christianity is the major religion of the country and coincidentally the feast day of St. Andrew, the patron saint of Barbados also falls on this day as well. Overall we can say that Barbados might be small but it has created a large cultural impact in our world and is a very beautiful place as well.
This day also makes the people of Barbados realize that road to independence was certainly not easy for Barbados hence we must not take the value of independence lightly. Nationalists like Sir Grantley Adams and Rt. Hon. Errol Walton Barrow led initiatives to see that Barbados became a free state. It was their bravery, determination, and leadership that resulted in the country's independence. And also not forget about the ancestors who suffered greatly during the slavery years and then also the people of Barbados were denied the right to self-rule and that's why we should never forget the value of independence.
This the day also presents an opportunity to all of the people of Barbados to proudly demonstrate and celebrate their unique identity especially for the younger generations. The country has a beautiful culture and heritage and this is the moment to celebrate it. Hence this day inspires the people to take a time to celebrate their identity with full enthusiasm, pride and great enjoyment while celebrating the country's culture, traditions and delicious cuisine!
Barbados Independence Day Celebrations:
The month-long independence celebrations include sports competitions, fairs, community events, and religious services. On the 30th November, a grand parade is held at the Garrison Savannah, the site of the original independence ceremony in 1966.
One of the many highlights of the independence celebrations is the blue and gold decorative lighting of Parliament buildings, Independence Square, Independence Arch and all the businesses throughout the capital of Bridgetown, you can also see the national colors adorning offices and highways in the city, all creating a spectacular view at night.
Another amazing part of the celebrations is the National Independence Festival of Creative Arts (NIFCA), where Barbadians are encouraged to showcase their talent in the fields of music, singing, dance, drama, writing, fine art, photography and arts and crafts. The festival runs throughout the whole of November and ends with a gala presentation where the finalists are featured.
This is a great time to day visit to Barbados! As Barbados is a great tourist destination full of warm and hospitable natives, the country invites everyone from all parts of the world to its Independence Day celebrations. Hotels, resorts, and guesthouses also offer special deals for tourists visiting for the national event.
Most Searched FAQs on Barbados Independence Day:
1. When is Barbados Independence Day celebrated?
Barbados Independence Day is annually celebrated on 30th November.
3. When did Barbados become republic?
Barbados became republic on 30th November, 2021.
3. What are Barbadians also called?
Native Barbadians also refer to themselves as 'Bajans'.