Barbados has been an independent country since November 30, 1966. And yet the “Jewel of the Caribbean” is still known today as “Little England,” in part because no other country ruled the island, in part because much of it its interior is exuberant. and green like England, and in part because of enduring British traditions. In addition, most of the tourists who come to the island are from the United Kingdom.

Barbados under British rule ~ Just the facts

– The British landed along the west coast of Barbados in the 17th century, although it was the Portuguese who called the island Barbados, “the bearded ones”, because of the appearance of the island’s fig trees.

– British settlers grew sugar cane and the largest plantations became very wealthy companies.

– The plantations would not have been profitable and productive without the slaves imported from Africa to work them.

– The British Crown saw the change of local political power from the first British settlers to, gradually, starting in the 1930s, the descendants of slaves.

– Grantley Adams was the first to push for independence from British rule; he founded the Barbados Labor Party in 1938 and in 1961 Barbados achieved self-governing status. The Barbados airport is named after this early and influential politician.

– After years of peaceful and democratic progress, Barbados became an independent state within the British Commonwealth on November 30, 1966. According to its constitution, Barbados is a parliamentary democracy inspired by the British system.

Celebration of the independence of Barbados

Every year on November 30, Barbados’ independence is celebrated in a similar way to that of the United States on July 4. Barbados’ birthday begins with a parade at Garrison Savannah, the former British military installation (and now a leading race track in the Caribbean and a very pretty grassy area steeped in history). (Actually, the British carried out their military operation for the entire Eastern Caribbean from Barbados.)

Having traveled extensively in the Caribbean, I realize that other countries view Barbados as the “boring” island. It’s true: both Jamaica and Trinidad, for example, are bigger, bolder, more colorful, and bolder ex-children of the Crown. Never mind; With its low crime rate, peaceful politics and high standard of living, Barbados happily accepts its role as boring.

This year, 2009, we celebrate Barbados’ 43rd birthday. Many happy returns!