Overview of Barbados

Profile

Barbados is an island nation at the eastern edge of the Lesser Antilles with an area of approximately 431 km², featuring relatively flat terrain formed by uplifted coral limestone. After developing through a colonial era based on sugarcane agriculture, it gained independence in 1966. Maintaining parliamentary democracy and high educational standards for many years, it is referred to as 'Little England'. Currently, tourism and international financial services are the economic pillars, with rich cultural, musical, and cricket traditions. In 2021, it transitioned from a Commonwealth realm to a republic, establishing a system with a president as head of state.

Official name: Republic of Barbados
Common name: Barbados
Numeric code: 052
Alpha-3 code: BRB
Alpha-2 code: BB
Population: Approximately 280,000 (2023)
Population density: Approximately 650 people/km2
Primary languages: English, Bajan Creole
Major religions: Protestant Christianity, Roman Catholicism, Non-religious
National anthem: In Plenty and In Time of Need
Calling code: +1-246
Internet TLD: .bb

History

Became a British colony in the 17th century, gained independence in 1966, and transitioned to a republic in 2021.

British settlers established residence on the Arawak indigenous island in 1627, developing through sugarcane plantation slavery. After 19th-century slave emancipation and 20th-century labor movements, it gained independence in 1966 while remaining in the Commonwealth, maintaining political stability and developing tourism and finance. On November 30, 2021, it abolished the constitutional monarchy with the British monarch as head of state and transitioned to a republic, with Sandra Mason becoming the first president.

Geography & climate

Low hills and flat plateaus formed by uplifted coral limestone occupy most of the area, with white sand beaches and coral reefs spreading along the coastline. Slight hills in the central area, with the highest point Mount Hillaby at 314m.

Tropical monsoon climate (distinct dry and wet seasons)

Area: North America (Caribbean) / 431 km²
Capital: Bridgetown
Largest city: Bridgetown
Coastal status: Yes

Natural resources

Coral reefs, Fishery resources (flying fish, etc.), Fertile sugarcane farmland, Limestone, Solar power, Wind power, Warm climate as tourism resource, Freshwater aquifers, Mahogany, Marine recreation areas

Politics

Government: Unitary parliamentary republic

Economy

Currency: Barbados Dollar (BBD)

GDP (nominal): Approximately 6.3 billion US Dollar (2023)

GDP (PPP): Approximately 7.7 billion US Dollar (PPP) (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: English, Bajan Creole

Time zone: Atlantic Standard Time

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Afro-Barbadian, European Barbadian, Mixed (Mulatto), Indian, Chinese, Lebanese

Life expectancy

79.3 years (2020 estimate)

Literacy rate

99.7%

National sports

Cricket, Soccer, Netball, Athletics, Sailing, Surfing, Horse Racing, Polo