What is Antigua primarily known as in the context of Antigua and Barbuda?

Antigua is known as the island that is the most populous part of the sovereign state of Antigua and Barbuda. The nation itself became an independent state within the Commonwealth of Nations on November 1, 1981.

What are the approximate dimensions and population of Antigua according to the provided text?

Antigua has a perimeter of roughly 87 kilometers (54 miles) and an area of 281 square kilometers (108 square miles). The island's population was recorded as 83,191 at the 2011 Census.

What is the main economic driver for Antigua, and what role does agriculture play?

Antigua's economy is primarily reliant on tourism, which is promoted as a luxury Caribbean escape. The agricultural sector exists mainly to serve the domestic market.

Where is Antigua located, and what is its highest point?

Antigua is situated in the Caribbean Sea, within the Leeward Islands archipelago. The island's highest elevation reaches 402 meters (1,319 feet) at its highest point, Boggy Peak.

What is the native name for Antigua, and what does it mean?

The native name for Antigua is 'Aanteega'. This name is derived from the indigenous inhabitants and translates to approximately 'our own'.

How did Antigua get its current name, and what are the possible origins of this name?

Christopher Columbus named the island 'Antigua' in 1493, meaning 'ancient' or 'old' in Spanish. It's believed he named it after the 'Virgin of the Old Cathedral' or a specific iconic mural, the Virgen de la Antigua, found in Seville Cathedral.

Who were the earliest known inhabitants of Antigua, and who followed them?

The earliest inhabitants of Antigua are believed to have been the Guanahatabey people, though this claim requires further citation. Following them, the Arawak people migrated from the mainland, and subsequently, the Carib people also settled on the island.

What agricultural contributions did the Arawak people make to Antigua?

The Arawak people introduced agriculture to Antigua and Barbuda. They cultivated crops such as the Antiguan 'black' pineapple, corn, sweet potatoes, chili peppers, guava, tobacco, and cotton, many of which remain staples in Antiguan cuisine.

What led to the decline of Antigua's indigenous population after European contact?

The decline of Antigua's native population was attributed to several factors introduced by Europeans, including infectious diseases, high rates of malnutrition, and enslavement. These factors significantly reduced the indigenous population.

When did English colonists first settle on Antigua, and who established the first permanent settlement?

English colonists first began settling on Antigua in 1632, having departed from St Kitts. Christopher Codrington, an Englishman, is credited with establishing the island's first permanent English settlement.

How did sugar become the primary crop in Antigua, and what was its significance?

Sugar became Antigua's main crop around 1674 when Christopher Codrington established the Betty's Hope plantation, introducing advanced sugar technology. The success of this plantation led other planters to shift from tobacco to sugar, establishing Antigua as a profitable sugar colony and Britain's 'Gateway to the Caribbean'.

What was the demographic shift in Antigua by the mid-1770s regarding its population?

By the mid-1770s, Antigua experienced a significant demographic shift. The slave population had increased to 37,500, while the white population decreased to below 3,000.

What measures were taken to address slave unrest in Antigua, and what were the consequences?

In response to slave unrest, Antigua enacted the Slave Act of 1723, making the arbitrary murder of slaves a crime, though it offered little improvement to their lives. Incidents like the 1729 conspiracy led to executions, and the alleged 1736 slave rebellion plot resulted in brutal crackdowns, including executions by breaking wheel, burning at the stake, and starvation.

What was Horatio Nelson's role in Antigua, and how did it affect his career?

Horatio Nelson served as the Senior Naval Officer of the Leeward Islands from 1784 to 1787. During his tenure, he enforced the Navigation Acts, which prohibited trade with the newly independent United States. This enforcement was unpopular with Antiguan merchants and reportedly hindered his career advancement for a period.

How did the American War of Independence and changing public opinion in Britain impact slavery in Antigua?

The American War of Independence disrupted the Caribbean sugar trade, affecting Antigua's economy. Concurrently, public opinion in Great Britain began to shift against slavery, contributing to its eventual abolition.

When did Great Britain abolish the slave trade and emancipate slaves in its colonies, including Antigua?

Great Britain abolished the slave trade in 1807 and subsequently emancipated all existing slaves in its colonies, including Antigua, in 1834.

What was the significance of the Naval Facility (NAVFAC) Antigua?

Commissioned in 1956 and decommissioned in 1984, NAVFAC Antigua was a shore terminal station part of the Sound Surveillance System (SOSUS) and Integrated Undersea Surveillance System (IUSS). Its primary function was to track Soviet submarines.

What was the purpose of the Missile Impact Location System (MILS) installed in Antigua?

From 1958 to 1960, the United States installed the Missile Impact Location System (MILS) in the Atlantic Missile Range (later the Eastern Range). This system was designed to precisely locate where test missile nose cones splashed down in the ocean.

What was the role of the U.S. Air Force base in Antigua before its deactivation?

Until July 7, 2015, the United States Air Force maintained Detachment 1, 45th Operations Group at a base near the airport. This unit provided high-rate telemetry data for the Eastern Range and its space launches.

What are the main ethnic groups in Antigua according to the 2011 Census data?

According to the 2011 Census, the primary ethnic group in Antigua is Black or of African descent, making up 87.12% of the population. Other significant groups include Other Mixed Race (3.86%), Other (5.64%), and Hispanic (2.79%).

Which countries were the most common places of birth for residents of Antigua in 2011, besides Antigua and Barbuda itself?

Besides Antigua and Barbuda (68.06%), the most common countries of birth for residents in 2011 were Guyana (7.20%), Jamaica (5.30%), Dominica (4.36%), and the USA (3.11%).

What is the primary sport in Antigua, and who are some notable cricketers from the island?

Cricket is the major sport in Antigua. Notable cricketers from the island include Vivian Richards, who captained the West Indies team and scored the fastest Test century at the Antigua Recreation Ground, and Brian Lara, who broke world record innings scores there twice.

Besides cricket, what other sports are popular in Antigua?

Sailing is a very popular sport, highlighted by events like Antigua Sailing Week and the Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta. Football (soccer) and basketball are gaining popularity among the youth, and sports fishing and kitesurfing are also practiced.

What is the currency of Antigua and Barbuda, and how is it valued?

The official currency of Antigua and Barbuda is the East Caribbean dollar (EC$). This currency is pegged to the US dollar, with an average exchange rate of approximately 2.7 EC$ to 1 US$.

What role did Antigua play in the early development of online gambling?

Antigua was one of the first nations to legalize, license, and regulate online gambling. It became a primary location for the incorporation of companies involved in this industry.

What was the outcome of the WTO dispute between Antigua and Barbuda and the United States regarding online gambling?

The WTO ruled in favor of Antigua and Barbuda in a dispute concerning the US's Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act. Antigua was awarded sanctions of US$21 million and granted the right to disregard certain US intellectual property obligations up to that amount.

What are the six civil parishes of Antigua?

Antigua is divided into six civil parishes: Saint George, Saint Peter, Saint Philip, Saint Paul, Saint Mary, and Saint John. These parishes do not have any form of local government.

What is the significance of Nelson's Dockyard in English Harbour?

Nelson's Dockyard in English Harbour is a restored British colonial naval station and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is named in honor of Vice-Admiral Horatio Nelson, who was stationed in the area.

What notable banking institutions have operated in Antigua, and what issues did some face?

Notable banks include Swiss American Bank Ltd (later Global Bank of Commerce, Ltd), the European Union Bank (which was shut down), and Stanford International Bank, which was involved in a massive Ponzi scheme. Antigua Overseas Bank was also placed into receivership.

Which famous Italian fashion designer owns a home near Deep Bay in Antigua?

Giorgio Armani, the renowned Italian fashion designer, owns a home near Deep Bay on the island of Antigua.

Who is Jamaica Kincaid, and what is the significance of her work in relation to Antigua?

Jamaica Kincaid is a novelist famous for her writings about life on Antigua. Her 1988 book, 'A Small Place,' which offered critical commentary on the island, was notably banned during the Vere Bird administration.

What is the Antiguan racer, and why is it significant?

The Antiguan racer is one of the rarest snakes in the world. Its population has undergone severe range reductions, making it a species of significant conservation concern.

What is the local name for Antigua, and what does it signify?

The local population refers to Antigua as Waladli or Wadadli. This name originates from the island's indigenous inhabitants and means 'our own,' reflecting a sense of belonging and heritage.

What is the significance of the Antigua Recreation Ground (ARG) in sports history?

The Antigua Recreation Ground (ARG) was historically significant for cricket, hosting Vivian Richards' fastest Test century and Brian Lara's record-breaking innings twice. It has since been replaced by the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium.

What is the 'Antiguan black' pineapple, and how was it introduced?

The 'Antiguan black' pineapple was a variety cultivated by the Arawak people, who introduced agriculture to the island. This pineapple is a traditional crop that has been part of the island's agricultural heritage.

What traditional Antiguan dishes are mentioned, and what are their main ingredients?

Two traditional Antiguan dishes mentioned are 'dukuna,' a sweet dumpling made from grated sweet potatoes, flour, and spices, and 'fungi,' a cooked paste made from cornmeal and water.

What was the 'Kingdom of Antigua' plot in 1736?

The 'Kingdom of Antigua' plot in 1736 was an alleged slave rebellion planned by an enslaved man named Prince Klaas (Court). He was crowned 'King of the Coromantees,' but the plot was discovered, leading to a severe crackdown by colonial authorities.

What is the significance of English Harbour and Falmouth regarding sailing?

English Harbour and the adjacent Falmouth village are recognized yachting and sailing destinations. They serve as important centers for provisioning and are popular spots during events like Antigua Sailing Week.

What is the primary purpose of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nelson's Dockyard?

Nelson's Dockyard is a restored British colonial naval station located in English Harbour. Its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site highlights its historical importance as a naval base.

What is the East Caribbean dollar pegged to, and what is its approximate value?

The East Caribbean dollar (EC$) is pegged to the US dollar. The approximate exchange rate is 2.7 EC$ for every 1 US$.

Which major airlines serve VC Bird Airport in Antigua?

VC Bird Airport is served by several major airlines, including Virgin Atlantic, British Airways, American Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Caribbean Airlines, Air Canada, WestJet, and JetBlue.

What is the significance of the Antiguan racer snake?

The Antiguan racer is significant because it is among the rarest snakes globally. Its severe range reduction makes it a critical species for conservation efforts in the Lesser Antilles.

What is the local name for the island of Antigua, and what does it mean?

The local name for Antigua is Waladli or Wadadli, which originates from the island's indigenous inhabitants and translates to 'our own'.

What historical event led to Antigua becoming known as Britain's 'Gateway to the Caribbean'?

Antigua became known as Britain's 'Gateway to the Caribbean' due to its development as a profitable sugar colony and its strategic location on major sailing routes connecting the region's resource-rich colonies.

What was the role of Christopher Codrington in Antigua's history?

Christopher Codrington played a key role by establishing Betty's Hope, Antigua's first full-scale sugar plantation, around 1674. He introduced advanced sugar technology, which helped establish sugar as the island's primary crop and led to the increased importation of enslaved labor.

What is the significance of the 1736 slave conspiracy in Antigua?

The 1736 slave conspiracy, allegedly led by Prince Klaas, was a significant event where enslaved people planned a rebellion against the colonists. The discovery and subsequent brutal suppression of this plot, involving numerous executions, underscore the harsh realities of slavery and resistance on the island.

Antigua Wiki: Antigua: An Island's Tapestry of History and Culture

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Geographical Landscape

Location and Dimensions

Antigua is situated in the Leeward Islands, a part of the Lesser Antilles archipelago in the Caribbean Sea. It spans an area of approximately 281 square kilometers (108 square miles) with a coastline measuring 87 kilometers (54.1 miles). The island is renowned for its numerous beaches, with local lore suggesting one for every day of the year.

Topography

The island's highest point is Boggy Peak, reaching an elevation of 402 meters (1,319 feet). The terrain varies, featuring natural harbors formed by points and capes along its extensive coastline, contributing to its historical significance as a maritime hub.

Settlements

The capital city, St. John's, is the largest settlement, housing approximately 22,000 residents and featuring a deep harbor capable of accommodating large cruise ships. Other significant population centers include All Saints and Liberta.

Historical Trajectory

Indigenous Roots

Antigua's earliest inhabitants were the Guanahatabey people, followed by the Arawak and then the Carib peoples. The Arawak, migrating from present-day Venezuela, introduced agriculture, cultivating crops like corn, sweet potatoes, chili peppers, and cotton, many of which remain staples in Antiguan cuisine.

European Discovery and Naming

Christopher Columbus first sighted Antigua in 1493, naming it Santa María de la Antigua in honor of a chapel or icon in Seville Cathedral. The indigenous name for the island is Waladli or Wadadli, meaning "our own."

Colonial Era and Sugar Economy

English colonization began in 1632, with Christopher Codrington establishing the first permanent settlement. Antigua rapidly developed into a profitable sugar colony, becoming a key British outpost in the Caribbean. The island's history is intertwined with figures like Lord Horatio Nelson, who was stationed there in the late 18th century.

The Era of Slavery

The sugar economy necessitated the importation of enslaved Africans. The harsh conditions of sugar cultivation and processing led to significant suffering and resistance, including documented plots and rebellions, such as the alleged conspiracy led by Prince Klaas in 1736. Slavery was abolished in 1834 following British legislation.

Modern Presence and Independence

Antigua became an associated state of the Commonwealth in 1967 and gained full independence on November 1, 1981. The island has hosted significant U.S. government facilities, including naval and air force stations related to surveillance and missile tracking systems.

Economic Landscape

Tourism Dominance

Antigua's economy is overwhelmingly driven by tourism, positioning it as a premier luxury destination in the Caribbean. The island attracts international visitors via VC Bird International Airport, served by numerous major airlines. The local currency is the East Caribbean Dollar (EC$), pegged to the US Dollar.

Online Gambling and Trade Disputes

Antigua was an early adopter of online gambling regulation. A protracted trade dispute with the United States concerning online gambling services led to rulings by the World Trade Organization (WTO), granting Antigua the right to retaliate by disregarding certain intellectual property obligations to the U.S.

Financial Sector

The island has hosted several international financial institutions. Notable entities include Swiss American Bank (later Global Bank of Commerce), European Union Bank, and Stanford International Bank, the latter involved in a significant Ponzi scheme. The banking sector has faced regulatory scrutiny and restructuring over the years.

Societal Fabric

Demographics

As of the 2011 census, Antigua had a population of 83,191. The population is predominantly of Black/African descent (87.12%), with smaller percentages of mixed-race individuals, White, and other ethnic groups. The primary language is English, with Antiguan Creole also spoken.

Ethnic Composition (2011 Census):

Ethnicity	Count	%
African descendant	72,473	87.12%
Caucasian/White	1,396	1.68%
East Indian/India	940	1.13%
Mixed (Black/White)	740	0.89%
Mixed (Other)	3,209	3.86%
Hispanic	2,323	2.79%
Syrian/Lebanese	568	0.68%
Other	795	0.96%
Don't know/Not stated	749	0.90%
Total	83,191	100.00%

Country of Citizenship (Primary):

Citizenship	Count	%
Antigua and Barbuda	67,569	81.22%
Guyana	5,993	7.20%
Jamaica	4,408	5.30%
USA	2,590	3.11%
Dominican Republic	2,076	2.50%
Other Caribbean countries	547	0.66%
United Kingdom	835	1.00%
Other	3,399	4.08%
Not Stated	1,337	1.61%
Total	83,191	100.00%

Education and Institutions

Antigua hosts international primary and secondary schools, including institutions offering the Ontario Secondary School Diploma and the International Baccalaureate. The island is also home to two offshore medical schools, the American University of Antigua (AUA) and the University of Health Sciences Antigua (UHSA), which contribute to the local economy and healthcare sector.

Internet Usage

According to census data, approximately 48.60% of the population reported using the internet, while 49.57% did not. This indicates a significant portion of the population has access to online resources.

Sporting Heritage

Cricket Excellence

Cricket is the dominant sport in Antigua. The island has produced legendary West Indian cricketers such as Sir Vivian Richards and Richie Richardson. The Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, built for the 2007 Cricket World Cup, is a testament to the island's passion for the sport, having previously hosted world record-breaking innings by Brian Lara.

Maritime Pursuits

Given its island nature, water sports are highly popular. Antigua is a major center for sailing, hosting prestigious events like Antigua Sailing Week and the Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta, which attract hundreds of yachts and competitors annually. Sport fishing and kitesurfing are also prominent activities.

Growing Popularity

While cricket remains paramount, football (soccer) and basketball are gaining traction among the island's youth. Golf is also available, with several courses catering to enthusiasts.

Notable Figures

Cultural Icons

Antigua has been home to numerous influential figures across various fields. These include acclaimed writers like Jamaica Kincaid, known for her critical portrayals of island life, and Marie-Elena John. The island's artistic contributions are also represented by figures like artist Heather Doram.

Sporting Legends

Beyond cricket, Antigua boasts notable athletes such as cricketers Curtly Ambrose and Andy Roberts, and sprinter Daniel Bailey, who achieved international recognition. The island's sporting prowess extends to its famous residents like Sir Vivian Richards.

International Residents

Antigua has attracted a diverse array of international figures, including fashion designer Giorgio Armani, Virgin mogul Richard Branson, and actor Timothy Dalton. Philanthropist Rachel Lambert Mellon has maintained a long-standing connection with the island.

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References

Dyde, B. (2000). A history of Antigua: The unsuspected isle. Interlink Publishing Group Incorporated.

"Calvin Ayre still living it up in Antigua". TechVibes

Alex Rose, "Berlusconi, Antigua, Report, Question Marks", 18 October 2010.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Antigua Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from publicly available data and may not be entirely exhaustive, current, or free from minor inaccuracies.

This is not professional advice. The information provided herein is not a substitute for professional consultation regarding travel, history, economics, or any other specialized field. Always consult official sources and qualified professionals for specific guidance.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided.

Antigua: An Island's Tapestry

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Geographical Landscape 🗺️

📍 Location and Dimensions

⛰️ Topography

🏘️ Settlements

Historical Trajectory ⏳

🗿 Indigenous Roots

🇪🇸 European Discovery and Naming

🇬🇧 Colonial Era and Sugar Economy

⛓️ The Era of Slavery

🇺🇸 Modern Presence and Independence

Economic Landscape 💰

✈️ Tourism Dominance

💻 Online Gambling and Trade Disputes

🏦 Financial Sector

Societal Fabric 👥

📊 Demographics

🎓 Education and Institutions

🌐 Internet Usage

Sporting Heritage 🏆

🏏 Cricket Excellence

⛵ Maritime Pursuits

⚽ Growing Popularity

Notable Figures 🌟

🎤 Cultural Icons

🏅 Sporting Legends

🌍 International Residents

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Geographical Landscape

Location and Dimensions

Topography

Settlements

Historical Trajectory

Indigenous Roots

European Discovery and Naming

Colonial Era and Sugar Economy

The Era of Slavery

Modern Presence and Independence

Economic Landscape

Tourism Dominance

Online Gambling and Trade Disputes

Financial Sector

Societal Fabric

Demographics

Education and Institutions

Internet Usage

Sporting Heritage

Cricket Excellence

Maritime Pursuits

Growing Popularity

Notable Figures

Cultural Icons

Sporting Legends

International Residents

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice