Errol Barrow

prime minister of Barbados

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June 22, 2026

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Errol Barrow was a pivotal figure in Barbados's history, serving as its first prime minister following independence in 1966. He led the Democratic Labour Party (DLP) into independence and was instrumental in shaping the nation's early years. Barrow played a key role in regional cooperation, helping to establish the Caribbean Free Trade Association, which later evolved into the Caribbean Community and Common Market (Caricom). His leadership contributed to Barbados's stable political system and economic diversification after the planter-merchant elite lost power. Barrow served as prime minister from 1966 to 1976 and again from 1986 to 1987.12

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Barbados
Barbados since independence
In 1968 Errol Barrow, who served as prime minister in 1966–76 and 1986–87, helped form the Caribbean Free Trade Association, which became the Caribbean Community and Common Market (Caricom) in 1973. The island has also established close ties with countries elsewhere in the less-developed world.
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In 1968 Errol Barrow, who served as prime minister in 1966–76 and 1986–87, helped form the Caribbean Free Trade Association, which became the Caribbean Community and Common Market (Caricom) in 1973. The island has also established close ties with countries elsewhere in the less-developed world.
Read More