Independence Movements in the Caribbean: Successes and Failures of the Colonial Powers

Independence Movements in the Caribbean: Successes and Failures of the Colonial Powers
Before the Second World War, a large part of the world was under colonial rule, with European powers maintaining colonies across the globe. After the war, political awareness grew in these colonized countries, and independence movements gained momentum under various types of political leadership. Nationalism surged in many regions as a result of the war, and the number of independent nation-states began to increase rapidly. At the same time, global population grew, while the size of states decreased. Former colonies often fragmented into smaller states, and new states were created. In many cases, however, the attempt to build new states failed. The Caribbean region, too, holds stories of both success and failure in state-building.
Independence of Caribbean Nations
Antigua and Barbuda, known for its tourism, and the Bahamas, a popular tourist destination with over 700 islands (many uninhabited but rich in beaches, coral reefs, and natural beauty), are notable Caribbean countries. Barbados, famous for cricket, beaches, and rum, has an economy that relies heavily on tourism and international trade. Barbados gained independence peacefully in 1966 under the joint leadership of the Barbados Labour Party and the Democratic Labour Party.
The most well-known Caribbean country for many readers is likely Cuba—the country of Fidel Castro. Along with communism, Cuba is known for its sugar, tobacco, and coffee exports, as well as its music, creative arts, and cigars. Cuba gained independence in 1959 by overthrowing a U.S.-backed government. The Cuban independence movement had begun as early as the 19th century and finally culminated under the leadership of Fidel Castro and Che Guevara, leading to the establishment of communism in the country.
Dominica and the Dominican Republic are two other Caribbean nations. Both have agriculture-based economies and export bananas, sugar, and coffee. The Dominican Republic was a Spanish colony and saw violent independence movements in the 19th and 20th centuries. It gained independence in 1821 after three centuries of colonial rule, was then taken over by Haiti, from which it broke free in 1844. Spain reoccupied it in 1861, and later it came under U.S. rule in 1916. The Third Republic was established in 1924, and the Fourth Republic in 1966. The Dominican Republic, with a population of 11 million, now has a per capita income of over $10,000.
Sharing the island of Hispaniola with the Dominican Republic is Haiti, known as the world’s first Black republic founded by former slaves. Grenada, famous for its spices, also has an agriculture- and tourism-dependent economy, like most Caribbean countries. Jamaica, one of the larger Caribbean nations, is known for its mountains, rainforests, and scenic beaches—and, of course, for cricket star Chris Gayle. Outside of tourism and agriculture, Jamaica has a growing manufacturing sector and a rich cultural heritage, especially in music. The Jamaican Labour Party and the People’s National Party led Jamaica's independence movement, and the country gained independence from Britain in 1962.
Other Caribbean countries include Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Trinidad and Tobago. Nearly all these nations were once colonies of various European powers before World War II and have agriculture- and tourism-based economies. Trinidad and Tobago gained independence from Britain in August 1962 under the leadership of the People’s National Movement (PNM), which also ensured a peaceful transition of power.
Why Were These Independence Movements Successful?
After World War II, the number of independent nations rose rapidly, along with an increase in movements demanding independence. These movements were justified by two main theoretical frameworks:
First, the Culturalist Theory suggests that nationalist movements arise from differences and inequalities in cultural identity. These identities may be based on language, ethnicity, or religion. Such identity-based independence movements often derive legitimacy from institutional and social inequalities, with civil society playing a key role in justifying these causes.
Second, according to the Rationalist Theory, people make decisions based on the most advantageous outcome. A political force is more likely to join an independence movement if doing so promises political and economic benefits. In most states, there is a core-periphery divide. Groups in the core enjoy more political and economic advantages, while those in the periphery experience the opposite. Eventually, peripheral groups may pursue independence to assert their own political identity and cultural diversity.
Third, human beings are inherently drawn to freedom. Most people do not accept colonial rule willingly. On the contrary, they repeatedly engage in political struggles to free themselves from it. Colonial rulers, however, are reluctant to relinquish control due to their economic and political interests. This often leads to conflict between colonizers and freedom-seekers. To suppress independence movements, colonizers typically maintain repressive state structures, which further incite resistance.
Fourth, every nation develops its own core values and political philosophies. Although democratic governance is practiced in over 130 countries today, each country shapes its system in its own way. Differences in governance values often lead to conflict between colonizers and local populations. These conflicts may arise from language issues, demands for equitable resource distribution, or religious differences—all of which strengthen the case for independence.
Fifth, the post-World War II global political landscape changed significantly. Foreign interference in domestic politics became more prevalent. Often, multiple global powers vied for influence in the same country, leading to clashes that sometimes resulted in independence. Regional political dynamics also played a role, as rival factions often saw the collapse of a colonial power or breakup of a larger state as an opportunity for political gain.
Caribbean Territories That Have Not Gained Independence
Despite many successes, at least 17 territories in the Caribbean remain under colonial rule. The countries that still hold territories in the Caribbean include the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, France, and the United States.
The UK, once a dominant colonial power in the region, still governs several territories including Anguilla, Bermuda, the British Virgin Islands, Montserrat, the Cayman Islands, and the Turks and Caicos Islands. The Netherlands retains control over Bonaire, Curaçao, Saba, Sint Maarten, Sint Eustatius, and Aruba. France controls Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Barthélemy, and Saint Martin. The United States governs Puerto Rico.
Many of these territories have small local populations, and some islands serve primarily military purposes. Global powers maintain a military presence in the Caribbean to preserve their geopolitical relevance and justify their continued control using various political arguments. These areas also lack a well-developed middle class—essential for a successful independence movement. Additionally, local elites often do not support independence, and the civil society lacks a principled ideological position. These are key reasons why these regions have not yet achieved independence.