Barbados (bahr-BAI-duhs), island state (166 sq mi/430 sq km; 1990 estmated population 260,000; 2004 estimated population 278,289), in the West Indies; (cap.) Bridgetown; 13°10'N 59°33'W.
Geography
The island, E of Saint Vincent, in the Windward Islands, is low and rises gradually toward its highest point at Mount Hillaby (1,104 ft/340 m). Although there is ample rainfall from June to December, there are no rivers, and water must be pumped from subterranean caverns. The porous soil and moderate warmth are excellent for the cultivation of sugarcane, which was historically the island’s main occupation.
Economy
The healthful and equable climate makes it a very popular tourist resort (tourism is the country’s largest industry). Manufacturing and banking are growing sectors of the economy.
History
Although it was probably originally inhabited by Arawaks, it was uninhabited when English expeditionaries first settled there in 1627 (1605, according to local tradition). Barbados remained a British colony until independence was granted in 1966. During the 19th century it was the administrative headquarters of the Windward Islands, but in 1885 it became a separate colony. It was a member of the short-lived Federation of the West Indies (1958–1962).
Government
The island has a parliamentary form of government. The chief of state is Queen Elizabeth II represented by Governor General Sir Clifford Straughn Husbands. The head of government is Prime Minister Owen Seymour Arthur. Barbados is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations, the Organization of American States, the Caribbean Community, and the UN.
