History and Demographics

About

       The history of Barbados goes back to 1627, when it was colonized by Great Britain. They were under British control for over 300 years, finally gaining independence on November 30th, 1966. After independence, the economy mainly relied on tourism for their profits, and many Guyanians moved there, as they were recognized as independent that same year. The island that would become Barbados was occupied by the Awkwak people, originating in Venezuela. The Awkwak peoples stayed in Barbados mainly in the fourth and fifth centuries, due to more and more conquistadors coming into the Western Hemisphere. The country got its name from some Spanish explorers, translating to Island of Bearded Men. Eventually, the British reached there, and with them brought the Atlantic Slave trade, being the reason why most of Barbados’ population is of African descent. After that, many of the British that settled there fled due to uprisings. There were no major wars to have Barbados form its own nation, but after many protests and riots for equal pay, they eventually gave it to them, letting them elect their first president, Tom Addams. Their main population today remains from african descent, making it also like before pre-colonization. More recently, Barbados helped the US with the invasion of Grenada, sending some of their own troops in, as well as providing a temporary home point for the US army, making it the only major war they participated in. Overall, Barbados’ history wasn’t too violent and is so vastly different than say the U.S. history.