Saint Lucia Brief History

Saint Lucia: Country Facts

Saint Lucia, a Caribbean island nation, is known for its stunning landscapes, including the iconic Pitons, volcanic beaches, and lush rainforests. The capital, Castries, serves as the economic and cultural hub. With a population of approximately 180,000, English is the official language, though Saint Lucian Creole is widely spoken. The economy is driven by tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing. Saint Lucia gained independence from the UK on February 22, 1979. The island boasts a rich cultural heritage, reflected in its festivals, music, and cuisine. Key exports include bananas and cocoa. Saint Lucia operates as a parliamentary democracy within the Commonwealth.

History of Saint Lucia

Pre-Columbian Era

Indigenous Peoples

The earliest inhabitants of Saint Lucia were the Ciboney, followed by the Arawaks and later the Caribs, known as the Kalinago. The island was called “Iouanalao” by the Arawaks, meaning “Land of the Iguanas.” The Kalinago referred to it as “Hewanorra.”

European Exploration and Colonization

Early Encounters (1499-1600s)

European interest in Saint Lucia began with the Spanish explorers in the late 15th century, although it was not heavily colonized initially. Juan de la Cosa mapped the island in 1499. The early attempts at colonization by the Spanish and Dutch faced resistance from the Caribs.

British and French Rivalry (1600s-1814)

The 17th and 18th centuries saw fierce competition between the British and French for control of Saint Lucia. The island changed hands 14 times between the two powers, earning it the nickname “Helen of the West Indies.”

Key Figures:

• Pierre Belain d’Esnambuc: French colonizer who claimed Saint Lucia for France in 1635.
• Sir Thomas Warner: British colonial governor involved in early colonization efforts.

Key Events:

• 1660: The British and French sign the Treaty of Paris, recognizing French control.
• 1763: The Treaty of Paris cedes Saint Lucia to Britain, but it returns to France in 1783.
• 1814: The Treaty of Paris permanently cedes Saint Lucia to Britain.

British Colonial Era

Sugar and Slavery (1814-1834)

Under British rule, Saint Lucia’s economy became heavily dependent on sugar plantations, which relied on enslaved Africans. The harsh conditions led to significant social and demographic changes.

Key Events:

• 1834: The Slavery Abolition Act leads to the emancipation of enslaved people.

Post-Emancipation and Economic Changes (1834-1950s)

The abolition of slavery prompted a transition to indentured labor, primarily from India, to sustain the sugar industry. The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw economic diversification into bananas and other crops.

Key Figures:

• Sir John Compton: An influential leader in the move towards self-government and later the first Prime Minister.

Key Events:

• 1885: Saint Lucia becomes part of the Windward Islands colony.
• 1924: Introduction of a representative government with limited electoral franchise.

Towards Independence

Political Reforms and Self-Government (1950s-1979)

The mid-20th century was marked by increased political activism and reforms leading to greater self-governance. The establishment of political parties and labor unions played a significant role in the decolonization process.

Key Figures:

• George Charles: Founder of the Saint Lucia Labour Party and key figure in labor movements.
• John Compton: Led the country towards self-government and independence.

Key Events:

• 1951: Universal adult suffrage is introduced.
• 1967: Saint Lucia becomes an associated state of the UK, with full internal self-government.
• 1979: Saint Lucia gains full independence from the UK on February 22.

Post-Independence Era

Building a Nation (1979-2000)

Following independence, Saint Lucia focused on nation-building, economic diversification, and social development. The political landscape saw the dominance of two main parties: the United Workers Party (UWP) and the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP).

Key Figures:

• John Compton: First Prime Minister, serving multiple terms.
• Kenny Anthony: Prime Minister who focused on economic reform and social policies in the late 1990s and early 2000s.

Key Events:

• 1980s: Economic challenges due to fluctuating banana prices.
• 1992: Establishment of the OECS (Organization of Eastern Caribbean States) headquarters in Saint Lucia.

Contemporary Saint Lucia

Modern Developments (2000-Present)

In recent decades, Saint Lucia has continued to develop its tourism industry, improve infrastructure, and address social issues such as healthcare and education. Political stability has generally prevailed, with peaceful transfers of power between the UWP and SLP.

Key Figures:

• Kenny Anthony: Served as Prime Minister during significant periods of economic reform.
• Allen Chastanet: Prime Minister focused on tourism and infrastructure development.

Key Events:

• 2009: Hurricane Tomas causes significant damage, prompting international aid and rebuilding efforts.
• 2016: Election of Allen Chastanet as Prime Minister.
• 2020: Ongoing challenges with economic diversification and response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Cultural Achievements

Saint Lucia boasts a rich cultural heritage, with contributions in music, literature, and the arts. The island is known for its vibrant festivals, such as Carnival and the Saint Lucia Jazz Festival. Nobel laureates Derek Walcott (Literature) and Sir Arthur Lewis (Economics) are celebrated figures, reflecting the island’s intellectual and artistic contributions to the world.

Major Turning Points

• 1635: French claim Saint Lucia.
• 1814: Treaty of Paris cedes Saint Lucia to Britain permanently.
• 1834: Abolition of slavery.
• 1951: Introduction of universal adult suffrage.
• 1967: Associated statehood with internal self-government.
• 1979: Independence from the United Kingdom.
• 2009: Hurricane Tomas recovery efforts.
• 2016: Election of Allen Chastanet as Prime Minister.