1938: British Government Sends Moyne Commission to Barbados
In 1938, in response to growing unrest and demands for better living and working conditions, the British government sent the West Indies Royal Commission, also known as the Moyne Commission, to Barbados. The commission's recommendations led to significant social and political reforms.
1938: Founding of the Barbados Labour Party
The Barbados Labour Party (BLP) was established in 1938. The BLP played a crucial role in advocating for workers' rights, social justice, and constitutional reform in Barbados.
1950: Universal Suffrage Introduced in Barbados
A pivotal moment in Barbadian history arrived in 1950 with the introduction of universal suffrage. This landmark decision granted all adult citizens the right to vote, regardless of their race, property ownership, or social standing, fostering a more inclusive democracy.
1953: Grantley Herbert Adams Becomes First Premier of Barbados
In 1953, Grantley Herbert Adams, a prominent figure in the Barbados Labour Party (BLP), made history by becoming the first Premier of Barbados. This significant appointment marked a step towards greater autonomy and self-governance for the island.
1955: Hurricane Janet Impacts Barbados
In 1955, Hurricane Janet, a powerful and destructive storm, struck Barbados, causing significant devastation across the island. This event highlighted the vulnerability of Barbados to the destructive forces of hurricanes, which pose a recurring threat to the region.
1955: Formation of the Democratic Labour Party
In 1955, the Democratic Labour Party (DLP) emerged on the Barbadian political scene, founded by a group of individuals advocating for more rapid progress toward independence. This development added a new dimension to the country's political landscape and set the stage for future electoral contests.
1958: Barbados Joins the British West Indies Federation
Barbados became part of the short-lived British West Indies Federation in 1958, signaling a period of regional integration efforts among Caribbean islands.
1958: Hugh Gordon Cummins Becomes Premier
Hugh Gordon Cummins, a key figure in the BLP, assumed the role of Premier of Barbados in 1958.
1961: Full Internal Self-Government Granted to Barbados
In 1961, Barbados reached a significant milestone on its path to full sovereignty by attaining full internal self-government. This pivotal development empowered the island nation to manage its domestic affairs independently while still under the umbrella of British rule.
1961: Democratic Labour Party Wins General Election and Errol Barrow Becomes Premier
The year 1961 witnessed a significant political shift in Barbados as the Democratic Labour Party (DLP) emerged victorious in the general election. Errol Barrow, the leader of the DLP, took office as premier, ushering in a new era of leadership and policy direction.
1962: Dissolution of the West Indies Federation
The British West Indies Federation, of which Barbados was a part, dissolved in 1962.
November 1966: Barbados Achieves Independence Within the Commonwealth
In November 1966, Barbados took a significant step towards self-governance by becoming a Commonwealth realm. This transition marked the island nation's emergence as a separate jurisdiction, with Queen Elizabeth II as its head of state.
November 1966: Barbados Achieves Full Independence
On November 30, 1966, Barbados achieved a momentous milestone by attaining full independence. This historic occasion marked the culmination of the island nation's long and determined struggle for self-determination, severing its colonial ties with Britain.
November 1966: Independence of Barbados and Two-Party System
Following its independence in November 1966, Barbados established a two-party system, with the Democratic Labour Party (DLP) and the Barbados Labour Party (BLP) emerging as the dominant political forces.
November 1966: Independence of Barbados
In November 1966, Barbados gained its independence, becoming a parliamentary republic based on the British Westminster system.
1974: Crop Over Festival Established in Barbados
The Crop Over festival, a major cultural event in Barbados, was established in 1974, showcasing the island's heritage, music, and traditions, and becoming a significant tourist attraction.
1976: Barbados Labour Party Wins General Election under Tom Adams
The Barbados Labour Party, led by Tom Adams, won the general election in 1976, marking a shift in the country's political landscape.
1976: Political Transition in Barbados
The year 1976 marked a significant political transition in Barbados, with the Barbados Labour Party (BLP) assuming governance after a period of rule by the Democratic Labour Party (DLP).
1983: US Invasion of Grenada Launched from Barbados
In 1983, Barbados, under the leadership of Prime Minister Tom Adams, played a controversial role in the US invasion of Grenada by allowing American forces to use the island as a launching point for the operation.
1985: Tom Adams Dies in Office
Tom Adams, who had served as Prime Minister since 1976, passed away while in office in 1985, leading to a period of political transition for Barbados.
1986: Shift in Political Power in Barbados
In 1986, the Democratic Labour Party (DLP) returned to power in Barbados after a period of governance by the Barbados Labour Party (BLP).
1986: Democratic Labour Party Returns to Power under Errol Barrow
The 1986 general election saw the return of the Democratic Labour Party (DLP) to power, with Errol Barrow reclaiming the position of Prime Minister. Barrow, known for his criticism of the US intervention in Grenada, brought a renewed focus on regional integration and economic development.
1992: Barbados Joins Forum of Small States
Barbados became a member of The Forum of Small States (FOSS) in 1992, the same year the group was established.
July 1994: Signing of Double Taxation Relief (CARICOM) Treaties
Representatives from eight Caribbean countries, including Barbados, met in July 1994 to sign the Double Taxation Relief (CARICOM) Treaties, aiming to foster economic cooperation and prevent double taxation within the region.
August 1994: Guyana Signs Double Taxation Relief Treaty
In August 1994, Guyana signed a Double Taxation Relief Treaty similar to the one signed by other Caribbean countries, further expanding the network of tax agreements in the region.
1994: End of Erskine Sandiford's Term as Prime Minister
Lloyd Erskine Sandiford's time as Prime Minister of Barbados concluded in 1994, marking the end of his tenure, which began after Errol Barrow's death in 1987.
1994: Political Change in Barbados
The year 1994 witnessed another shift in Barbados' political landscape, with the Barbados Labour Party (BLP) regaining control of the government from the Democratic Labour Party (DLP).
1994: Owen Arthur Becomes Prime Minister
Owen Arthur, representing the Barbados Labour Party (BLP), emerged victorious in the 1994 general election, assuming the role of Prime Minister and initiating a period of BLP leadership in Barbadian politics.
1995: Barbados Joins World Trade Organization
Barbados became an original member of the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 1995, actively engaging in global trade and economic cooperation.
1999: Strong Economic Performance in Barbados
Barbados enjoyed a period of strong economic performance between 1999 and 2000, characterized by growth and stability, setting the stage for further development.
2000: Continued Economic Growth in Barbados
Barbados experienced continued economic growth in 2000, building on the positive momentum from the previous year, and demonstrating the country's potential for sustained economic development.
2000: Obadele Thompson's Olympic Win
Obadele Thompson etched his name in Barbados' history by winning a bronze medal in the 100m sprint at the 2000 Summer Olympic Games, marking the country's first-ever Olympic medal.
2000: Barbados Open Joins European Seniors Tour
The Barbados Open, held annually at the Royal Westmoreland Golf Club, became part of the European Seniors Tour in 2000, attracting renowned senior golfers to the island.
September 2001: Terrorist Attacks Impact Barbados Economy
The September 2001 terrorist attacks in the United States had a ripple effect on Barbados' economy, contributing to a recession as tourism and consumer spending declined, demonstrating the interconnectedness of global events and local economies.
2002: Recession Grips Barbados
The Barbados economy went into recession in 2002, following a slowdown in key sectors such as tourism and consumer spending, underscoring the vulnerability of the island nation to external economic factors.
2003: Start of Grantley Adams International Airport Upgrade
A major upgrade and expansion project commenced at the Grantley Adams International Airport in 2003, aiming to modernize and enhance the airport's facilities and capacity.
2003: Unemployment Rate Decreases in Barbados
Barbados achieved a notable reduction in unemployment in 2003, with the rate falling to 10.7%, reflecting successful government efforts to create job opportunities and improve economic conditions.
2003: Economic Rebound in Barbados
Barbados' economy rebounded in 2003, showing signs of recovery after a period of recession, bringing renewed hope for growth and stability.
2004: Economic Growth Resumes in Barbados
The year 2004 marked the resumption of economic growth in Barbados, following a period of recovery, setting the stage for a period of sustained expansion.
July 2005: London Bombings Affect Barbados Tourism
The July 2005 London bombings further impacted Barbados' tourism industry, contributing to an economic slowdown, as international travel was affected by security concerns.
2005: Barbados Adopts Caribbean Court of Justice
In a significant legal development in 2005, Barbados replaced the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council with the Caribbean Court of Justice as its final court of appeal.
December 2006: WGC-World Cup at Sandy Lane Resort
The prestigious WGC-World Cup golf tournament was held at Barbados' Sandy Lane resort in December 2006, putting the country in the international golfing spotlight.
2006: Barbados Men's National Basketball Team's Success at Commonwealth Games
In a display of their growing prowess in basketball, the Barbados men's national team secured a commendable fifth-place finish in the 2006 Commonwealth Games.
2006: Completion of Grantley Adams International Airport Upgrade
The US$100 million upgrade and expansion project at the Grantley Adams International Airport reached completion in 2006, marking a significant milestone in the airport's development.
December 2007: Barbados Signs Economic Partnership Agreement with EU
In December 2007, Barbados, as part of the Caribbean Forum (CARIFORUM), signed an Economic Partnership Agreement with the European Commission, strengthening trade ties between the two regions.
2007: Cricket World Cup Final in Barbados
Barbados hosted the final match of the 2007 Cricket World Cup, a testament to the country's passion for this sport.
2007: Construction Boom in Barbados
The hosting of the Cricket World Cup in 2007 spurred a construction boom in Barbados, with significant investments in hotels, office complexes, and residential properties, boosting the island's infrastructure.
2008: Global Recession Impacts Barbados
The global economic recession, beginning in 2008, had a significant impact on Barbados, leading to another period of economic downturn, highlighting the interconnectedness of global and local economies.
2008: Economic Slowdown Affects Barbados
The global economic crisis that began in 2008 had a significant impact on Barbados, leading to an economic slowdown and a decline in construction activity, highlighting the country's vulnerability to external shocks.
2008: Democratic Labour Party Wins General Election
The Democratic Labour Party (DLP) secured victory in the 2008 Barbadian general election, marking a change in government and the beginning of David Thompson's tenure as Prime Minister.
2008: Return of the Democratic Labour Party in Barbados
The Democratic Labour Party (DLP) made a comeback in Barbados in 2008, taking over the reins of government from the Barbados Labour Party (BLP).
2008: Barbados Invests in Education
In 2008, Barbados allocated a significant portion of its GDP (6.7%) to education, reflecting the government's commitment to human capital development and the importance of education in fostering economic growth and social progress.
2009: End of Barbados Open on European Seniors Tour
After a successful run, the Barbados Open concluded its time on the European Seniors Tour in 2009, marking the end of an era for golf in the country.
2009: Rihanna Appointed as Honorary Ambassador
In 2009, Barbadian singer Rihanna was honored with the title of Honorary Ambassador of Youth and Culture for Barbados by the then Prime Minister David Thompson.
2009: Barbados Stock Exchange Explores International Expansion
Officials at the Barbados Stock Exchange, the third largest in the Caribbean region, explored the possibility of establishing an International Securities Market (ISM) in 2009, aiming to attract foreign investment and expand the exchange's reach.
2009: Ryan Brathwaite's Gold Medal at World Championships in Athletics
Ryan Brathwaite made history in 2009 by winning a gold medal in the 110 metres hurdles at the World Championships in Athletics in Berlin, a significant achievement for Barbados.
2009: 10 Saints Beer Launch
The year 2009 saw the introduction of 10 Saints beer, a unique brew from Speightstown, Barbados. This beer undergoes a distinctive 90-day aging process in Mount Gay 'Special Reserve' Rum casks and is available in select Caricom nations.
2010: Hurricane Tomas Impacts Barbados
Hurricane Tomas impacted Barbados as a tropical storm in 2010, causing relatively minor damage compared to previous hurricanes.
2010: Death of Prime Minister David Thompson
In a somber turn of events, Prime Minister David Thompson of Barbados passed away in 2010 while in office. This unexpected loss triggered a transition of leadership within the DLP.
2010: Barbados National Census Reports Population Data
The Barbados Statistical Service carried out a national census in 2010, collecting vital demographic data on the island's population. The census results provided insights into population size, distribution, and other key characteristics, offering valuable information for policymakers and planners.
2012: Study Reveals Poverty in Barbados
A 2012 study conducted by Barbados, in collaboration with the Caribbean Development Bank, revealed that despite its high-income status, a significant portion of the population (20%) lived in poverty, highlighting economic disparities within the country.
2012: Economic Crisis Impacts Barbados
The world economic crisis that began in 2008 continued to affect Barbados in 2012, further slowing the country's construction boom and highlighting the challenges of economic recovery.
2013: Recession Ends in Barbados
Barbados emerged from a period of recession in 2013, marking the end of an economic downturn that had begun in 2008, signaling a return to growth and recovery.
2014: Race of Champions at Bushy Park Circuit
Adding to its motorsports profile, Barbados hosted the Race of Champions at the Bushy Park Circuit in 2014, attracting international racing enthusiasts and drivers.
2014: Economic Growth Returns to Barbados
Barbados' economy began to show signs of growth in 2014, following a period of recession, marking the start of a period of economic expansion and recovery.
2015: Unemployment Rate Rises in Barbados
In the second quarter of 2015, Barbados experienced an increase in its unemployment rate, which rose to 11.9%, indicating economic challenges and potential difficulties in the labor market.
2016: Credit Rating Downgrades Impact Barbados
Barbados faced credit rating downgrades from agencies such as Standard & Poor's and Moody's in 2016, reflecting concerns about the country's economic performance and fiscal outlook, which could potentially impact investor confidence and borrowing costs.
2016: Darian King Represents Barbados at Summer Olympics
Darian King represented Barbados in tennis at the 2016 Summer Olympics, showcasing the sport's development and talent within the country.
2016: Barbados' Biocapacity Deficit Highlighted
In 2016, data revealed that Barbados faced a substantial biocapacity deficit, indicating that the country's ecological footprint, or its demand on natural resources, exceeded its ability to regenerate those resources within its territory.
May 2017: Darian King's Career-High Tennis Ranking
Barbadian tennis player Darian King reached his career-high ranking of 106 in May 2017, demonstrating the growing presence of tennis in Barbados.
2017: Economic Growth Continues in Barbados
Barbados experienced continued economic growth from 2014 to 2017, indicating a positive trend in the country's economic performance and signaling potential for further development.
May 2018: Barbados's Debt Reaches US$7.5 Billion
By May 2018, Barbados faced a growing debt burden, with outstanding debt reaching US$7.5 billion, exceeding 1.7 times the country's GDP, raising concerns about fiscal sustainability and economic stability.
June 2018: Barbados Defaults on Sovereign Debt
In June 2018, Barbados faced a significant financial challenge when it defaulted on its sovereign debt, failing to make a coupon payment on Eurobonds due in 2035, signaling a potential crisis in the country's ability to meet its financial obligations.
2018: Barbados Labour Party's Return to Power
In 2018, the Barbados Labour Party (BLP) returned to power in Barbados, marking another chapter in the country's dynamic two-party system.
2018: Mia Mottley Becomes Barbados's First Female Prime Minister
Making history in 2018, Mia Mottley led the Barbados Labour Party (BLP) to victory in the general election, becoming the first woman to hold the position of Prime Minister in Barbados. Her election marked a significant milestone in the country's political landscape.
2018: Credit Rating Downgrades Continue for Barbados
Barbados experienced further credit rating downgrades from agencies like Standard & Poor's and Moody's in 2018, signaling continued concerns about the country's economic and fiscal situation, potentially impacting investor sentiment and access to capital.
October 2019: Barbados Restructures Debt with Creditors
In October 2019, Barbados reached an agreement with a group of creditors to restructure its debt, providing some relief to the country's financial challenges and paving the way for economic recovery.
2019: Religious Demographics of Barbados Reported
Data from 2019 shed light on the religious landscape of Barbados, revealing that Christianity remained the dominant faith, with Anglicanism being the largest denomination, encompassing 23.9% of the population. The data also highlighted the presence of other Christian groups, as well as a notable proportion of the population identifying as non-religious.
2019: Economic Downturn and Credit Rating Downgrades in Barbados
The Barbados economy experienced a downturn from 2017 to 2019, coinciding with a global economic slowdown, and leading to credit rating downgrades by agencies like Standard & Poor's and Moody's, reflecting concerns about the country's economic outlook.
March 2020: COVID-19 Pandemic Causes Economic Decline in Barbados
By March 2020, Barbados' economy, which had shown signs of growth, experienced another decline due to the global COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the ongoing economic challenges posed by the crisis.
July 2020: Introduction of Electric Buses in Barbados
In a move towards sustainable transportation, the Barbados Transport Board introduced 33 BYD electric buses in July 2020, signifying a step towards reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
September 2020: Barbados Announces Intention to Become a Republic
In September 2020, the Government of Barbados made a historic announcement, revealing its intention to transition the country into a republic. This decision signaled a significant shift in Barbados's relationship with the British monarchy and its intention to forge a new path as an independent nation.
2020: Life Expectancy in Barbados Reaches 80 Years
In 2020, Barbados achieved a significant milestone with a life expectancy of 80 years for its residents. This impressive figure placed the island nation among those with the highest life expectancies globally, reflecting positive advancements in healthcare, living conditions, and overall well-being.
September 2021: Introduction of the Constitution (Amendment) (No. 2) Bill
On September 20, 2021, the Constitution (Amendment) (No. 2) Bill, 2021, was introduced in the Parliament of Barbados. This bill proposed significant changes to the Constitution, aiming to establish the office of the President of Barbados and pave the way for a transition to a parliamentary republic.
October 2021: Sandra Mason Nominated and Elected as First President of Barbados
In October 2021, a historic moment unfolded as Sandra Mason, the incumbent Governor-General of Barbados, secured the nomination for the position of the first President of Barbados. This nomination, jointly put forth by the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition, marked a significant step towards Barbados becoming a republic.
October 2021: University of the West Indies Conducts Survey on Republicanism
A survey conducted by the University of the West Indies between October 23, 2021, and November 10, 2021, aimed to gauge public opinion on the transition to a republic in Barbados. The results provided insights into the level of support and opposition to this significant constitutional change.
November 2021: Target Date Set for Barbados to Become a Republic
Barbados set November 30, 2021, as the target date for its transition to a republic. This date held special significance as it coincided with the 55th anniversary of the island nation's independence, adding symbolic weight to the occasion.
November 2021: Survey Results Released, Showing Mixed Public Opinion
In November 2021, the findings of the University of the West Indies survey on republicanism in Barbados were released to the public. The results revealed a mixed bag of opinions, with a significant portion of respondents expressing indifference towards the proposed change.
November 2021: Barbados Transitions to a Parliamentary Republic
On November 30, 2021, Barbados transitioned from a constitutional monarchy to a parliamentary republic within the Commonwealth. This change involved replacing the monarchy with a ceremonial president as the head of state.
November 2021: Sandra Mason Assumes Office as President of Barbados
On November 30, 2021, Sandra Mason was sworn in as the first President of Barbados, marking the culmination of the country's journey to become a parliamentary republic.
2021: UNICEF Reports Infant Mortality Rate in Barbados
In 2021, UNICEF, the United Nations agency focused on children's well-being, released data indicating that the infant mortality rate in Barbados stood at 11.057 infant deaths per 1,000 live births. This figure provided insights into the health and survival of infants in the country.
June 2022: Constitutional Review Commission Formed in Barbados
On June 20, 2022, a Constitutional Review Commission was established and formally sworn in by Jeffrey Gibson, the Acting President of Barbados at the time. This commission's primary objective was to undertake a comprehensive review of the Constitution of Barbados, signaling a commitment to constitutional reform and modernization.
August 2022: Obadele Thompson Recognized as Barbados' First Olympic Medalist
As of August 2022, Obadele Thompson held the distinction of being the first and only Olympic medalist from Barbados, having won a bronze medal in the 100m sprint at the 2000 Summer Olympic Games.
December 2023: Cultural Renaissance in Barbadian Art
In December 2023, a cultural renaissance in Barbadian art was flourishing, with artists exploring a mix of traditional and modern mediums and techniques, as documented by Raskal Magazine.
December 2023: Airport Expansion Plans Announced
Prime Minister Mia Mottley revealed plans for a significant expansion of the Grantley Adams International Airport in December 2023, with negotiations underway for a US$300 million development project.
2024: ICC Men's T20 World Cup in Barbados
Further solidifying its place in the cricketing world, Barbados was chosen to host the final of the 2024 ICC Men's T20 World Cup.
2029: New Maturity Date for Restructured Barbados Debt
As part of its debt restructuring agreement with creditors, Barbados issued new bonds with a maturity date of 2029, extending the repayment period and providing the government with more time to manage its financial obligations.
2030: Barbados' Goal for Fossil Fuel Elimination
The government of Barbados set an ambitious goal to phase out the use of fossil fuels by 2030, demonstrating a commitment to environmental sustainability and combating climate change.
2035: Maturity Date for Eurobonds Issued by Barbados
The year 2035 marked the maturity date for a series of Eurobonds issued by Barbados, highlighting the long-term financial commitments of the government and the importance of sound fiscal management.