History
The history of Antigua and Barbuda can be traced back to the indigenous Siboney and Arawak peoples. During the European colonial period, the country was ruled by Spain, France, and then Britain. British influence had the most profound impact, leaving behind a strong legacy of British-style architecture and culture.
Politics
Antigua and Barbuda is a members of the Commonwealth realm, with the monarch being Charles III. The Governor-General serves as the monarch’s representative on the islands but holds no real power. Antigua and Barbuda operate under a parliamentary democracy with a bicameral legislature. The House of Representatives consists of 17 elected members. The Prime Minister, as the head of government, is usually the leader of the majority party in the House of Representatives and, along with their cabinet members, manages the country. The Senate consists of 17 members appointed by the Governor-General (usually in consultation with the Prime Minister and the leader of the opposition), with limited powers. Elections are held every five years, but the Prime Minister can request the dissolution of Parliament and call for early elections at any time. The constitution of Antigua and Barbuda guarantees freedoms of speech, press, religion, assembly, and association. Its legal system is primarily based on common law.
Economy
The main economic driver of Antigua and Barbuda is tourism, accounting for over half of the GDP. Agriculture is primarily for domestic consumption. There is also a small industrial sector, mainly producing export items such as bedding, handicrafts, and electronics. The offshore financial sector is also a significant economic sector. The American University of Antigua and the Antigua College of Medicine are also important contributors to the local economy. The government of Antigua and Barbuda is attempting to diversify its economy by attracting industries in transportation, communication, and finance to reduce its dependence on tourism.
Natural Resources Antigua and Barbuda have abundant natural resources, including rocks rich in potassium salt, which, when processed, can be used to produce fertilizers, contributing significantly to the local economy’s development. Additionally, there is a thriving confectionery and fruit industry, including bananas, pineapples, papayas, and mangoes, which are not only delicious but also rich in nutritional value. Besides serving as an agricultural and fishing base, the small island nation benefits economically from tourism, attracting visitors from around the world to vacation and relax amid the beautiful beaches, blue skies, and sunshine.
The culture of Antigua and Barbuda is mainly influenced by British and African traditions. Cricket is the national sport and the country hosted the Cricket World Cup in 2007. Football, sailing, and other sports are also popular.
Brendan Christian won the bronze medal in the 100 meters and the gold medal in the 200 meters at the 2007 Pan American Games.
James Grayman won the bronze medal in high jump.
Miguel Francis became the first Antiguan to run the 200 meters in under 20 seconds.
Every August, the country celebrates Carnival to commemorate the abolition of slavery. The two newspapers in Antigua are the Daily Observer and the Caribbean Times. 77% of the population is Christian, with Anglicanism (17.6%) being the largest denomination.
