About BB
Location
Barbados is an island country located in the Lesser Antilles of the Caribbean region. It is situated in the western area of the North Atlantic and lies east of the Windward Islands and the Caribbean Sea.
Capital
The capital city of Barbados is Bridgetown.
Population
Barbados has a population of approximately 287,000 people.
Language
English is the official language of Barbados.
Ethnic Diversity
The majority of the population of Barbados is of African descent, with a significant minority of people of European descent. There are also smaller communities of South Asian and mixed-race descent.
Geography
Barbados is a small, flat coral island with an area of about 430 square kilometers (166 square miles). It is known for its beautiful sandy beaches, coral reefs, and limestone caves.
Economy
Barbados has a mixed economy, with key sectors including tourism, financial services, and agriculture. Tourism is the largest contributor to the economy, with visitors attracted to the island's beaches, resorts, and cultural attractions.
Currency
The currency of Barbados is the Barbadian Dollar (BBD).
Government
Barbados is a parliamentary democracy and a Commonwealth realm, with Queen Elizabeth II as the ceremonial head of state represented by a Governor-General. The Prime Minister is the head of government.
Culture
Barbados has a rich cultural heritage influenced by African, British, and Caribbean traditions. The island is known for its vibrant music, including calypso, soca, and reggae. Crop Over is a popular festival in Barbados, celebrating the end of the sugar cane harvest with music, dance, and street parades.
National Items of Barbados
Flying Fish
Flying fish are a national symbol of Barbados and a staple in its cuisine, particularly in the famous dish "cou-cou and flying fish." They represent the island's maritime heritage and the importance of fishing to the local economy.
Pride of Barbados
The Pride of Barbados is the national flower, known for its bright red and yellow blossoms. It symbolizes the vibrant beauty of the island's natural flora.
Mount Gay Rum
Mount Gay Rum, produced in Barbados, is one of the oldest brands of rum in the world. It represents the island's long history of rum production and its cultural significance.
Chattel House
Chattel houses are traditional Barbadian homes that are small, wooden, and often colorful. They symbolize the island's architectural heritage and the adaptability of its people.
Bajan Sugar Cane
Sugar cane is an important crop in Barbados, historically significant for the island's economy. It symbolizes the agricultural heritage and the sugar industry's impact on the island.
The Trident
The trident, or "broken trident," is a prominent symbol found on the national flag of Barbados. It represents the island's independence and the break from its colonial past.
Barbadian Black Belly Sheep
The Barbadian Black Belly Sheep is a breed native to the island and known for its resilience and adaptability. It symbolizes the agricultural diversity and livestock heritage of Barbados.
Tuk Band
Tuk bands are traditional Barbadian musical groups that play a mix of African and British music on instruments like the pennywhistle, snare drum, and bass drum. They symbolize the island's rich musical heritage and cultural fusion.
The national anthem of Barbados is called "The National Anthem of Barbados" in English. Here are the lyrics:
In plenty and in time of need
When this fair land was young
Our brave forefathers sowed the seed
From which our pride has sprung
A pride that makes no wanton boast
Of what it has withstood
That binds our hearts from coast to coast
The pride of nationhood
Chorus:
We loyal sons and daughters all
Do hereby make it known
These fields and hills beyond recall
Are now our very own
We write our names on history's page
With expectations great
Strict guardians of our heritage
Firm craftsmen of our fate
The Lord has been the people's guide
For the past three hundred years
With Him still on the people's side
We have no doubts or fears
Upward and onward we shall go
Inspired, exulting, free
And greater will our nation grow
In strength and unity.
