Rt. Hon. Errol Barrow (1920-1987)

Born January 21st 1920 in the parish of St. Lucy Barbados, Father of Barbados' Independence or 'The Skipper' as he was affectionately called by most, was Barbados' First Prime Minister.

A Graduate of Ecomonics (London school of economics) and law (Inns of Court) Barrow returned to barbados after serving with the RAF (Flying Officer) in world war II.

Errol Barrow was elected to the Barbados Labour Party in 1951 but founded the Democratic Labour Party in 1955 after being dissatisfied with the political approach of the determined party supporters. After becoming the Party Leader in 1958 while winning elections in 1961, he served as the premier of Barbados until 1966, when he lead the country to Independence from the rule of Great Britain

In 1965 Barrow superheaded the foundation of the CARIFTA (CARIBBEAN FREE TRADE ASCOCIATION) which later evolved into what we know as Caricom in this present day.

As Barbados' first Prime minister and in the years that followed, he led Barbados toward a social democracy with free education to all levels, abolished segregation in education; introducted a National Insurance and Social Security scheme; improved health services; accelerated industrial development; and considerable expansion of the tourist industry.

Errol Barrow Facts:

• Errol Barrow Day: January 21st
• The Errol Barrow Centre for Creative Imagination is located at the UWI Cavehill Campus, St. Micheal
• The Errol Barrow Statue is located in Independence Square, Bridgetown St. Micheal