Overview of Trinidad and Tobago

Profile

Trinidad and Tobago maintains high income levels within the Caribbean due to oil and natural gas reserves, with the capital Port of Spain functioning as a financial and logistics hub. The population of approximately 1.54 million has roughly equal proportions of African and Indian descent, with diverse ethnic groups including European, Chinese, and Middle Eastern coexisting. Known as the birthplace of the world's largest Carnival and steelpan, it boasts vibrant culture where music, dance, and cuisine fuse. Blessed with tropical maritime climate, tourism resources are abundant including birdwatching, diving, and rum distillery tours. English is the official language and the currency is Trinidad and Tobago Dollar (TT$).

Official name: Republic of Trinidad and Tobago
Common name: Trinidad and Tobago
Numeric code: 780
Alpha-3 code: TTO
Alpha-2 code: TT
Population: Approximately 1.54 million (2023)
Population density: Approximately 273
Primary languages: English
Major religions: Christianity, Hinduism, Islam
National anthem: Forged from the Love of Liberty
Calling code: +1-868
Internet TLD: .tt

History

Gained independence from Britain in 1962 and transitioned to republic in 1976.

After Columbus arrived in 1498, it became Spanish territory, and French settlers' plantations developed in the late 18th century. Britain acquired Trinidad Island in 1797 and Tobago Island in 1802, unifying both islands in 1888. After abolition of slavery, large numbers of indentured laborers from India migrated, forming the current ethnic composition. After participating in the West Indies Federation in 1958, it gained independence as a Commonwealth realm on August 31, 1962, and transitioned to republic in 1976. While rapid growth of the oil and natural gas industries has driven the economy, urban crime and income disparity remain contemporary challenges.

Geography & climate

Trinidad Island has varied topography with mountain ranges running north, central, and south with lowlands and wetlands between. Tobago Island has Main Ridge running through center with coral reefs dotted around.

Tropical maritime (leaning toward savanna climate)

Area: North America (Caribbean) / 5130 km²
Capital: Port of Spain
Largest city: Chaguanas
Coastal status: Yes

Natural resources

Petroleum, Natural gas, Asphalt, Limestone, Quality cacao, Fishery resources, Tropical hardwood, Abundant wild birds, Coral reefs, Groundwater, Clay, Gravel

Politics

Government: Republic (parliamentary system)

Economy

Currency: Trinidad and Tobago Dollar (TTD)

GDP (nominal): Approximately 30.1 billion USD (2023)

GDP (PPP): Approximately 48.5 billion USD (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: English

Time zone: AST

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

African descent, Indian descent, Mixed (Dougla), European descent, Chinese descent, Syrian-Lebanese

Life expectancy

Approximately 73.5 years

Literacy rate

Approximately 99%

National sports

Cricket, Soccer, Athletics, Netball, Basketball, Rugby, Swimming