Is Barbados Still Under British Rule? Unraveling Its Colonial Legacy

Is Barbados no longer under British rule? Barbados achieved its independence as a constitutional monarchy in 1966. However, it was only in October 2022 that the nation took a historic step by formally cutting ties with Britain. This momentous decision involved removing Queen Elizabeth II as its head of state and electing the country’s inaugural president. This move marked a significant milestone in Barbados’ journey towards complete sovereignty.

Barbados ceased to be a British colony on November 30, 1966, marking a significant milestone in its history. This transition to independence was the result of negotiations held during a constitutional conference with Britain in June 1966. After years of pursuing a peaceful and democratic path toward self-governance, Barbados successfully achieved its goal and officially became an independent state on November 30, 1966. Errol Barrow assumed the role of the nation’s first Prime Minister, while Queen Elizabeth II continued to hold the title of Queen of Barbados. This momentous event marked the beginning of a new era for the island, as it embarked on its journey as a sovereign nation.

Which Caribbean countries are currently under British rule? Most Caribbean territories have gained full independence and sovereignty. However, a handful of them, namely Anguilla, the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, Montserrat, the Turks and Caicos Islands, and Bermuda, continue to be designated as British Overseas Territories. These territories maintain a special relationship with the United Kingdom, although they have a degree of self-governance and internal autonomy. This distinction between fully independent sovereign states and British Overseas Territories helps clarify the complex political status of these Caribbean nations.