What is Tobago officially designated as within the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago?

Tobago is officially designated as the Ward of Tobago, serving as an island and a ward within the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

Geographically, where is Tobago situated in relation to the larger island of Trinidad and the coast of Venezuela?

Tobago is located 35 kilometers (20 nautical miles) northeast of the larger island of Trinidad and approximately 160 kilometers (85 nautical miles) off Venezuela's northeastern coast.

What is the capital and largest city of Tobago?

The capital and largest city of Tobago is Scarborough.

What is the official language spoken in Tobago?

The official language spoken in Tobago is English.

According to the 2011 census, what is the primary ethnic group in Tobago?

According to the 2011 census, the primary ethnic group in Tobago is of African descent, making up 85.2% of the population.

What name did Christopher Columbus give to Tobago, and what was the reason behind this name?

Christopher Columbus named Tobago "Belaforme," which translates to 'beautiful form,' because the island appeared beautiful from a distance.

What indigenous names were given to Tobago by the Kalina and Kalinago peoples, and what do these names signify?

The Kalina people called the island Urupina due to its resemblance to a large snail, while the Kalinago called it Aloubaéra, supposedly because it resembled a giant snake found on Dominica.

When was the name 'Tabaco' first documented for the island, and what inspired its use?

The name 'Tabaco' was first recorded in a Spanish royal order in 1511, inspired by the island's shape resembling the fat cigars smoked by the Taíno people of the Greater Antilles.

Approximately when did the Ortoiroid people first settle in Tobago, marking the beginning of indigenous habitation?

The Ortoiroid cultural tradition people are believed to have first settled in Tobago sometime between 3500 and 1000 BCE.

What key agricultural contributions, such as crops, are attributed to the Saladoid people who settled in Tobago?

The Saladoid people, who settled in Tobago in the first century CE, brought pottery-making and agricultural traditions, likely introducing crops such as cassava, sweet potatoes, Indian yam, tannia, and corn.

What European powers were involved in repeated attempts to colonize Tobago, leading to it changing hands numerous times?

Numerous European powers, including the Dutch, English, French, Spanish, and Swedish, were involved in repeated colonization attempts of Tobago.

How many times did Tobago change sovereignty among European powers, making it a unique case in Caribbean history?

Tobago changed hands 33 times among European powers, which is the most in Caribbean history, before being ceded to the British in 1814.

When did Tobago officially become a ward of Trinidad, and what was the impact on its local government?

In 1889, Tobago officially became a ward of Trinidad under a Royal Order in Council, which terminated its separate local government and formed a unified colony government.

What natural disaster in 1963 significantly altered Tobago's economy by devastating its agricultural base?

Hurricane Flora, which struck Tobago in 1963, ravaged the island, destroying banana, coconut, and cacao plantations that were central to its economy.

What industry began to develop in Tobago following the economic restructuring after Hurricane Flora?

Following the economic devastation caused by Hurricane Flora, attempts were made to diversify the economy, leading to the development of a tourism industry.

What is the total land area of Tobago, and what are its approximate dimensions?

Tobago has a land area of 300 square kilometers (120 square miles) and is approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) long and 10 kilometers (6 miles) wide.

What is the geological origin of Tobago, and what type of material forms its southwestern region?

Tobago is primarily mountainous and of volcanic origin. The southwestern part of the island is flat and largely composed of coralline limestone.

What is the highest point in Tobago, and what is its elevation?

The highest point in Tobago is Pigeon Peak, located near Speyside, with an elevation of 550 meters (1,800 feet).

What type of climate does Tobago experience, and what are its two main seasons?

Tobago experiences a tropical climate. It has two main seasons: a wet season from June to December and a dry season from January to May.

Which hurricane, less severe than Flora, also caused significant damage to Tobago in 2004?

Hurricane Ivan caused significant damage to Tobago in 2004, although it was less severe than Hurricane Flora.

What governmental body is responsible for both central and local government functions in Tobago?

The Tobago House of Assembly (THA) is responsible for handling central and local government functions in Tobago.

Who is the current Chief Secretary of Tobago, and which political party do they represent?

The current Chief Secretary of Tobago is Farley Chavez Augustine, representing the Progressive Democratic Patriots.

How many seats does Tobago hold in the Parliament of Trinidad and Tobago?

Tobago is represented by two seats in the Parliament of Trinidad and Tobago: Tobago East and Tobago West.

What was Tobago's population in the 2011 census, and how did its population growth compare to Trinidad during the same period?

Tobago's population was 60,874 in the 2011 census. Between 2000 and 2011, its population grew by 12.55%, making it one of the fastest-growing areas in Trinidad and Tobago.

In the 2011 census, what percentage of Tobago's population identified as African, and what percentage identified as Mixed?

In the 2011 census, 85.2% of Tobago's population identified as African, and 4.2% identified as Mixed.

What percentage of Tobago's population identified as Indian in the 2011 census?

In the 2011 census, 2.5% of Tobago's population identified as Indian.

In the 2011 census, what was the religious breakdown for Tobago, with the largest percentage identifying with which broad category?

In the 2011 census, the largest percentage of Tobago's population identified as Christian (72.87%), with Protestantism being the largest denomination within Christianity.

What are the main economic activities in Tobago?

Tobago's main economic activities are tourism, fishing, and government spending, with government spending being the largest contributor.

What percentage of Tobago's workforce is employed by the Tobago House of Assembly?

The Tobago House of Assembly (THA) employs 62% of Tobago's labor force.

What type of tourism is growing in significance in Tobago, often focusing on its natural environment?

Ecotourism is growing in significance in Tobago, with much of it focused on the protected forest areas and the small island of Little Tobago.

Why is Tobago considered a prime location for diving compared to Trinidad?

Tobago is a prime diving location because it is the southernmost Caribbean island with coral communities; Trinidad, being further south, lacks significant coral due to low salinity and high silt from the Orinoco River.

What is the name of the wreck that is considered a notable diving site in Tobago?

The wreck of the Maverick Ferry, which used to travel between Trinidad and Tobago, is considered a notable diving site in Tobago.

How many golf courses are located in Tobago, and are they accessible to visitors?

There are two golf courses in Tobago, and both are open to visitors.

What is the former name of the Magdalena Grand Hotel & Golf Club?

The Magdalena Grand Hotel & Golf Club was formerly known as Tobago Plantations Golf Course.

How does Tobago's size and location relate to the island described in Daniel Defoe's novel Robinson Crusoe?

Tobago closely matches the size and location of the island described in Daniel Defoe's novel *Robinson Crusoe*, being situated near Trinidad and the mouth of the Orinoco River.

In what year did Walt Disney Productions choose Tobago as the filming location for Swiss Family Robinson?

Walt Disney Productions chose Tobago as the filming location for *Swiss Family Robinson* in 1958.

What happened to the Swiss Family Robinson treehouse after filming concluded?

After filming, locals convinced Disney to let the treehouse remain, and it became a popular attraction before being destroyed by Hurricane Flora in 1963.

What is the significance of the Tobago Forest Reserve (Main Ridge Reserve) in terms of its age and protection status?

The Tobago Forest Reserve, also known as the Main Ridge Reserve, is significant as the oldest protected rainforest in the Western Hemisphere, designated in 1776.

What types of wildlife, including birds and reptiles, inhabit Tobago's Main Ridge Forest Reserve?

Tobago's Main Ridge Forest Reserve is home to diverse wildlife, including birds like the blue-backed manakin, mammals, frogs, non-venomous snakes, butterflies, and other invertebrates.

What are the three largest coral reef marine ecosystems in Tobago, and what is their ecological function?

The three largest coral reef marine ecosystems in Tobago are Buccoo Reef, Culloden Reef, and Speyside Reef. These systems help protect Tobago's shores from erosion.

What environmental problem has recently damaged Tobago's coral reefs, particularly near Charlotteville?

Damage to Tobago's coral reefs, especially near Charlotteville, has been caused by silt and mud runoff from road construction and diverted silty water from Flagstaff Hill.

Name three notable singers from Tobago mentioned in the article.

Three notable singers from Tobago mentioned are The Mighty Shadow (Winston McGarland Bailey), Calypso Rose (Linda Sandy-Lewis), and Winston Duke (actor, though listed among Tobagonians).

Name three notable athletes (sprinters or footballers) from Tobago.

Three notable athletes from Tobago include sprinters Kelly-Ann Baptiste and Lalonde Gordon, and footballer Dwight Yorke.

What are the two major islands that constitute Trinidad and Tobago?

The two major islands that constitute Trinidad and Tobago are Trinidad and Tobago.

What is the name of the island that serves as a bird sanctuary and is the northernmost part of Trinidad and Tobago?

Saint Giles Island, the northernmost part of Trinidad and Tobago, serves as a bird sanctuary.

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Island Overview

Location and Identity

Tobago is an island and a ward within the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. Situated northeast of Trinidad, it lies approximately 160 kilometers off Venezuela's coast, southeast of Grenada and southwest of Barbados. It forms a crucial part of the nation's geography and identity.

Geography at a Glance

With a land area of 300 km², Tobago is characterized by a mountainous spine known as the Main Ridge. The southwestern part of the island is flatter, composed of coralline limestone. Pigeon Peak, at 550 meters, is its highest point.

Languages and People

The official language is English, with Tobagonian Creole also spoken. The population is predominantly of African descent, reflecting its history, though there is a growing presence of other ethnic groups.

A Tapestry of History

Indigenous Roots

Indigenous peoples, including the Ortoiroid and Saladoid cultures, inhabited Tobago from as early as 3500 BCE. Later, the Troumassoid tradition, possibly linked to the Island Caribs, influenced the island. Tobago's strategic location made it a connection point between various indigenous groups.

Colonial Contention

European powers, including the Dutch, French, Spanish, and English, vied for control of Tobago for centuries. It changed hands an estimated 33 times, making it a focal point of colonial conflict before being ceded to the British in 1814. Early attempts at colonization were often met with indigenous resistance.

British Rule and Transformation

Under British rule, Tobago developed a plantation economy based on sugar, cotton, and indigo, utilizing enslaved African labor. The abolition of slavery and economic challenges, including a devastating hurricane in 1847, led to the decline of sugar. In 1889, Tobago became a ward of Trinidad, and later, efforts focused on diversifying the economy towards tourism following further hurricane damage in 1963.

Island Geography

Terrain and Features

Tobago's landscape is predominantly hilly and mountainous, with volcanic origins. The central spine, the Main Ridge, is a significant geological feature. The southwestern region transitions to flatter terrain characterized by coralline limestone. Pigeon Peak, reaching 550 meters, offers panoramic views.

Coastal Beauty

The island boasts numerous idyllic beaches along its coastline, including popular spots like Castara, Bloody Bay, and Englishman's Bay. These shores are protected by vibrant coral reef ecosystems, such as the Buccoo Reef, which also play a crucial role in preventing coastal erosion.

Tropical Climate

Seasonal Patterns

Tobago experiences a tropical climate, influenced by its location south of the Atlantic Main Development Region. The island has distinct wet and dry seasons, with rainfall varying significantly across its terrain. The wet season typically runs from June to December, while the dry season occurs from January to May.

Weather Data

Average temperatures remain consistently warm throughout the year. The island is susceptible to tropical cyclones, with notable impacts from Hurricane Flora in 1963 and Hurricane Ivan in 2004, which significantly affected its economy and landscape.

Climate data for Tobago (A.N.R. Robinson International Airport) (1973–2004)
Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec	Year
Record high °C (°F)	32.4 (90.3)	33.1 (91.6)	33.2 (91.8)	35.0 (95.0)	34.0 (93.2)	33.4 (92.1)	33.0 (91.4)	35.0 (95.0)	33.8 (92.8)	33.7 (92.7)	32.8 (91.0)	36.1 (97.0)	36.1 (97.0)
Mean daily maximum °C (°F)	30.2 (86.4)	30.5 (86.9)	30.9 (87.6)	31.4 (88.5)	31.7 (89.1)	31.1 (88.0)	30.7 (87.3)	31.2 (88.2)	31.5 (88.7)	31.4 (88.5)	30.9 (87.6)	30.3 (86.5)	31.0 (87.8)
Daily mean °C (°F)	26.3 (79.3)	26.5 (79.7)	26.8 (80.2)	27.6 (81.7)	28.1 (82.6)	27.6 (81.7)	27.4 (81.3)	27.6 (81.7)	27.8 (82.0)	27.6 (81.7)	27.3 (81.1)	26.7 (80.1)	27.3 (81.1)
Mean daily minimum °C (°F)	22.5 (72.5)	22.5 (72.5)	22.8 (73.0)	23.9 (75.0)	24.6 (76.3)	24.2 (75.6)	24.0 (75.2)	24.0 (75.2)	24.1 (75.4)	23.9 (75.0)	23.6 (74.5)	23.0 (73.4)	23.6 (74.5)
Record low °C (°F)	19.0 (66.2)	19.0 (66.2)	19.2 (66.6)	18.7 (65.7)	21.0 (69.8)	20.1 (68.2)	21.0 (69.8)	20.3 (68.5)	20.0 (68.0)	19.1 (66.4)	19.2 (66.6)	19.6 (67.3)	18.7 (65.7)
Average precipitation mm (inches)	65.9 (2.59)	52.8 (2.08)	21.4 (0.84)	52.9 (2.08)	105.8 (4.17)	172.5 (6.79)	266.9 (10.51)	244.6 (9.63)	182.6 (7.19)	240.2 (9.46)	207.5 (8.17)	161.0 (6.34)	1,774.2 (69.85)
Average precipitation days (≥ 1 mm)	9.8	7.0	5.2	5.2	8.9	15.6	17.1	15.4	13.7	14.8	16.2	13.0	142.0
Source: NOAA

Governance Structure

Tobago House of Assembly

Tobago operates with a degree of autonomy through the Tobago House of Assembly (THA). This body manages local government functions, with its current leadership held by the Progressive Democratic Patriots. The THA is composed of elected representatives from various electoral districts across the island.

National Representation

Tobago is represented in the Parliament of Trinidad and Tobago by two Members of Parliament, covering the Tobago East and Tobago West constituencies. These representatives contribute to national legislative decisions, ensuring Tobago's voice is heard at the federal level.

Electoral Districts

The island is administratively divided into 15 electoral districts, each represented by an Assemblyman in the THA. These districts cover the diverse communities and regions of Tobago, facilitating localized governance and representation.

Economic Landscape

Tourism Focus

Tourism is a cornerstone of Tobago's economy, attracting visitors to its renowned beaches and water-sports activities. Ecotourism is also gaining prominence, highlighting the island's rich biodiversity and natural reserves, particularly within the Main Ridge Forest Reserve.

Supporting Sectors

Fishing remains a vital traditional industry, contributing to the local economy and culinary landscape. Government spending, primarily through the THA, also plays a significant role in employment and economic activity on the island.

Connectivity

Tobago is connected globally via the Arthur Napoleon Raymond Robinson International Airport and Scarborough harbour. Regular domestic flights link it to Trinidad, while international routes serve the Caribbean and Europe, facilitating tourism and trade.

Rich Ecology

Ancient Forest Reserve

The Main Ridge Reserve, established in 1776, is recognized as the oldest protected rainforest in the Western Hemisphere. This biodiverse area supports a remarkable array of flora and fauna, including numerous bird species, mammals, amphibians, and invertebrates.

Marine Ecosystems

Tobago's waters are renowned for their diving sites, featuring extensive coral reef systems like Buccoo Reef and Speyside Reef. These reefs are vital for marine biodiversity, providing habitats for tropical fish, rays, and sharks, and protecting the island's shores.

Wildlife Havens

Little Tobago and St. Giles Island serve as critical nesting sites for various seabirds, including red-billed tropicbirds and magnificent frigatebirds. Tobago's beaches also provide nesting grounds for leatherback turtles during their season.

Demographics & Notable Figures

Population Snapshot

As of the 2011 census, Tobago's population was approximately 60,874. The capital, Scarborough, is the largest urban center. The population growth rate has been notable, indicating increasing development and attractiveness.

Tobago Racial Breakdown (2011)
Racial Composition	2011
Afro-Trinidadians and Tobagonians	85.2%
Dougla (Indian and Black)	4.2%
Multiracial	4.2%
Indo-Trinidadians and Tobagonians	2.5%
White Trinidadian/Tobagonian	0.7%
Native American (Amerindian)	0.1%
Chinese	0.08%
Arab (Syrian/Lebanese)	0.02%
Other	0.1%
Not stated	2.6%

Religious Landscape

Christianity is the predominant religion, with Protestant denominations and Roman Catholicism being the largest groups. Other significant religious affiliations include Hinduism, Islam, and Orisha-Shango traditions.

Tobago Religious Breakdown (2011)
Religious Composition	2011
Seventh-day Adventism	16.26%
Pentecostalism/Evangelicalism/Full Gospel	14.69%
Anglicanism	12.80%
Spiritual Baptist	10.56%
Roman Catholicism	6.64%
Methodism	4.93%
Moravian	4.56%
Jehovah's Witnesses	1.62%
Orisha-Shango	1.52%
Hinduism	0.67%
Baptists	0.63%
Islam	0.57%
Rastafari	0.39%
Presbyterianism/Congregationalism	0.18%
Other	10.38%
Not Stated	9.83%
None	5.39%

Notable Individuals

Tobago has been the birthplace or home of many influential figures across various fields, including arts, sports, and politics. Notable individuals include Calypso Rose (Linda Sandy-Lewis), singer; Dwight Yorke, footballer; Winston Duke, actor; and A.N.R. Robinson, former Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago.

Cultural Influence

Literary Connections

Tobago's size and location bear a resemblance to the island described in Daniel Defoe's classic novel, Robinson Crusoe. While the novel is often associated with Alexander Selkirk's experiences in the Pacific, Tobago features "Crusoe Cave," linking it to the enduring legend.

Cinematic Setting

In 1958, Tobago served as the filming location for Walt Disney's adaptation of Swiss Family Robinson. The island's lush landscapes provided the perfect backdrop, with specific sites like Richmond Bay and Craig Hall Waterfalls being utilized. A treehouse built for the film became a temporary attraction.

Environmental Concerns

Reef Degradation

Recent environmental challenges include damage to coral reefs caused by sediment and mud runoff from coastal construction projects. Efforts are underway to mitigate these impacts and protect Tobago's sensitive marine ecosystems.

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References

Riddell (Author), Henri de Bourbon (comte de Chambord.), John. "The Patent of Baron to C Van Lampsins." The Pedigree of the Duchess of Mantua, Montferrat and Ferrara, Oxford University, 1885, pp. 8â10.

Electoral Districts in the Electoral Area of Tobago in relation to Tobago House of Assembly Elections, Elections & Boundaries Commission of T&T

Rhead, Louis. LETTER TO THE EDITOR: "Tobago Robinson Crusoe's Island", The New York Times, 5 August 1899.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Tobago 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 based on publicly available data and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date. It does not constitute professional advice, whether geographical, historical, or otherwise.

This is not travel advice. Always consult official sources and qualified professionals for travel planning or specific information regarding destinations.

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

Tobago: An Emerald Isle of the Caribbean Sea

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Island Overview 🏝️

📍 Location and Identity

🗺️ Geography at a Glance

🗣️ Languages and People

A Tapestry of History ⏳

🏛️ Indigenous Roots

⚔️ Colonial Contention

🇬🇧 British Rule and Transformation

Island Geography ⛰️

⛰️ Terrain and Features

🌊 Coastal Beauty

Tropical Climate ☀️

🌡️ Seasonal Patterns

🌀 Weather Data

Governance Structure 🏛️

🏛️ Tobago House of Assembly

⚖️ National Representation

📜 Electoral Districts

Economic Landscape 💰

🏖️ Tourism Focus

🎣 Supporting Sectors

✈️ Connectivity

Rich Ecology 🌳

🌲 Ancient Forest Reserve

🐠 Marine Ecosystems

🐢 Wildlife Havens

Demographics & Notable Figures 🧑‍🤝‍🧑

📊 Population Snapshot

🙏 Religious Landscape

🌟 Notable Individuals

Cultural Influence 🎭

📖 Literary Connections

🎬 Cinematic Setting

Environmental Concerns ♻️

⚠️ Reef Degradation

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

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❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

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References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Island Overview

Location and Identity

Geography at a Glance

Languages and People

A Tapestry of History

Indigenous Roots

Colonial Contention

British Rule and Transformation

Island Geography

Terrain and Features

Coastal Beauty

Tropical Climate

Seasonal Patterns

Weather Data

Governance Structure

Tobago House of Assembly

National Representation

Electoral Districts

Economic Landscape

Tourism Focus

Supporting Sectors

Connectivity

Rich Ecology

Ancient Forest Reserve

Marine Ecosystems

Wildlife Havens

Demographics & Notable Figures

Population Snapshot

Religious Landscape

Notable Individuals

Cultural Influence

Literary Connections

Cinematic Setting

Environmental Concerns

Reef Degradation

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice