History of Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda are small island nations in the Caribbean Sea. It has two main islands, Antigua and Barbuda, and smaller uninhabited islands. These islands have a long history that has been documented for thousands of years.
Early Inhabitants
Siboney people settled the islands first, sometime around 2400 BC. The Arawak were preceded later by the Arawak tribe, but they are also called the Taino people. These indigenous groups lived off fishing, hunting, and farming on the fertile land.
European arrival and slavery
Christopher Columbus landed in Antigua during his second voyage to the Americas in 1493. Because of a church in Seville, Spain, he named the island "Santa Maria la Antigua." First colonized by the Spanish, the islands also the arrival of new diseases led to the devastation of the indigenous population, resulting in significant loss of life. Saw the arrival of new diseases, which divested the indigenous population and resulted in substantial loss of life. Hardly any sugarcane had been planted at the time, and during the 1600s, European colonizers began importing enslaved Africans to work on these sugarcane plantations. It carried on until slavery was abolished in 1834.
European Colonization
Christopher Columbus seized the island in 1493, claiming it for Spain. Although the Spanish started a settlement in Antigua and Barbuda, they had few resources, and the remote terrain prevented them from settling continually. Several English settlers came in 1632, and later, sugar plantations were established, relying on the labor of enslaved Africans. This was the start of British colonization in Antigua and Barbuda.
Slavery and Emancipation
The history of Antigua and Barbuda was not left out of its slavery role. To supply the sugar plantations, the demand for a large workforce necessitated an increase in the importation of enslaved Africans. It is estimated that by 1777, some 37,000 enslaved people lived on the islands. Slavery was abolished in Antigua and Barbuda, as in other British colonies, in 1834. While there were few economic opportunities for the formerly enslaved people, they had trouble making a living as free citizens.
Independence
Antigua and Barbuda obtained self-governing status within the British Commonwealth in 1967. 1981, the islands gained complete independence, with Vere Cornwall Bird Sr. as the first prime minister. Since independence, Antigua and Barbuda has been politically unstable, with numerous government changes and disputes over land ownership and economic development.
Islands
The main islands are Antigua and Barbuda, as well as several smaller uninhabited islands. The capital city of St. John's is on the largest and most heavily populated of the three, Antigua (which roughly translates as 'our island'). However, work is underway to restore and revitalize the island for residents and tourists alike.
Tourism
Antigua and Barbuda rely on tourism for their economy. The islands are blessed with beautiful beaches, a warm climate and a rich history that attracts thousands of visitors annually. The country attracts tourists who have visited here with its natural beauty and cultural heritage, but they have also invested in campaigns to promote sustainable tourism.
Ethnic groups
Most of the population in Antigua and Barbuda is of African descent, with only a few ethnic minorities, such as a minority of mixed Europeans. People from other Caribbean islands make up a portion of the population who have moved to the island for economic reasons.
Languages
Antigua and Barbuda is an island nation that was previously a British colony. Its official language is English, but most of the local population also speaks Creole English and Spanish.
Religion
The religion in Antigua and Barbud is Christianity, and most people identify as Anglican or Roman Catholic. Rastafarianism and Islam are other religions practiced on the islands.
Culture and Cuisine
By indigenous tribes, European colonizers, and enslaved Africans, you can see there is a rich history within the culture of Antigua and Barbuda. It all reflects in the country’s food, music, festivals, and art. Fungee and Pepperpot, a cornmeal-based dish served with stewed meats or vegetables, is the national dish of Antigua and Barbuda. Popular dishes for which other options include salt fish (dried cod) and ducana (a sweet potato dumpling). They also make their rum, which is widely drunk by locals and tourists.
Current Day
Antigua and Barbuda, today's major tourist destinations, are famed for their beautiful beaches and warm climate. Tourism makes up more than 60% of the country's GDP and is the primary source of its economy. The government is also investing in diversifying the economy with some producing sectors, such as financial services and technology.
Government and politics
Antigua and Barbuda has had a parliamentary democracy since gaining independence in 1981. The executive authority is vested in the Prime Minister, who is also the head of the government. At the same time, the British monarch’s representative in the country, called the Governor General, is the Head of State. Prime Minister Gaston Browne has ruled the country since 2014, and he stood for re-election in 2018. In 2020, he announced his plans to have Antigua and Barbuda become a republic by 2024 through constitutional amendments. This would see the British monarch become a mere Head of State and a parliament-elected President.
Administrative divisions
Antigua and Barbuda is divided into six parishes: five reside on the island of Antigua and one on the island of Barbuda. A local government council runs each parish and is responsible for delivering services to its residents. St. John's is also the capital, a separate administrative division.
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