Grenada gains full independence, Eric Gairy becomes Prime Minister, economy reliant on nutmeg exports.
| Political | Economic Downturn |
Updated By: History Editorial Network (HEN)
Published: | Updated:
4 min read
Grenada's path to full independence culminated when it gained autonomy from British colonial rule. This milestone saw the transition from a British dependency to a sovereign state within the Commonwealth. The event marked the end of over three centuries of European dominion, starting with French settlement and subsequent British control.
Eric Gairy, who had been instrumental in the labor movement and political advancement in Grenada, became the nation's first Prime Minister. Gairy's leadership was pivotal in driving the independence movement. His political career began with his role as a trade union leader, where his efforts significantly improved workers' rights and conditions, garnering him substantial support among the populace.
Achieving independence allowed Grenada to exercise greater control over its internal affairs and economic policies. The nation retained membership in the Commonwealth, allowing it to maintain connections with other former British territories. The new political status led to the drafting of a national constitution and the establishment of local governance frameworks.
In terms of demographics, the population of Grenada at the time was predominantly of African descent, a legacy of the transatlantic slave trade. The country's economy was primarily agrarian, relying heavily on the export of spices, particularly nutmeg, which earned it the nickname "the Island of Spice."
The geopolitical impact of Grenada's independence was observed in the broader context of decolonization that swept across the Caribbean and other parts of the world during this period. It provided a model for other territories aspiring for self-governance and contributed to the global shift towards the dismantling of colonial empires.
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