Birthplace of Rum? Barbados (The Moreish Podcast)
Exploring the rich history and vibrant culture of Barbados. On this episode of the podcast we’re turning our spotlight on the beautiful island of Barbados, a Caribbean country that became an independent republic in November 2021, after removing Great Britain as its head of state.
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A glimpse into Bajan history
It’s intriguing to learn about Barbados’ path to independence, the influences that shaped its culture, and the complex social strata formed by free citizens, indentured servants, and enslaved people. On this episode of the podcast we began with an exploration of Barbados’ history, from the significance of it’s transition to an independent republic and delving into the island’s past.
The original inhabitants of the island were the Arawaks and Caribs, who reportedly arrived from areas in South America. The first Europeans to arrive around 1620 is not as clearly laid out: it may have been the Portuguese who gave the island the name Los Barbados or it was the Spanish. Either way, the Europeans raided the island and enslaved the Indigenous people.
The British settlers arrived around 1625 and ruled until Barbados gained independence in 1966. Tobacco and cotton plantations flourished initially, but by the 1640s, sugarcane plantations became the primary source of profit with assistance by the Dutch, cultivated with the labor of enslaved Africans and indentured servants.
Out of the colonization of Barbados came the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade, during which many West African people were taken forcibly to the island. Additionally, indentured servants from Ireland and Scotland left their mark on Barbadian society, creating a unique cultural fabric. Through the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade approximately 609,000 enslaved African people were put on ships bound for Barbados.
Barbados’ population today is a blend of descendants from various regions, predominantly West African, European (British, Irish, and Scottish), and Indigenous peoples with the current population estimated to be approximately 92% Black of African heritage and the remaining population of mixed background or South Asian heritage.. This mix is evident in the island’s culture, customs, and traditions.
Grasping the Cultural Mosiac of Barbados
Crop Over, a vibrant summer festival, has historical roots. This celebration, which dates back to the 1780s, marks the end of the sugar harvest season. Although its popularity waned when the sugar industry declined, it was revived in the 1970s and remains a major event today.
The British influence is still evident in many aspects of Bajan culture. Cricket, a sport introduced by British soldiers and plantation owners, remains incredibly popular on the island. Additionally, Barbados hosts the Celtic Festival every year to celebrate the heritage of Irish and Scottish indentured servants, showcasing a fusion of Bajan and Celtic traditions through food, music, and performances.
Diving into the Culinary Scene
Food in Barbados is an amalgamation of its rich cultural history. The island is famously known as the “Land of the Flying Fish,” and the national dish, “Flying Fish and Cou-Cou”, is a testament to its culinary heritage —a fusion of African heritage and British influences.
You’ll find images of the flying fish on Barbadian coins, passports, and the Barbados Tourism Authority’s logo symbolizing the nation’s deep connection to the sea.
Flying Fish and Cou-Cou: The National Dish
Flying Fish is abundant in the Bajan waters. Despite its name, the fish doesn’t actually fly but swims at high speeds and glides above the water when necessary to escape predators giving the appearance of flying.
There are various ways to cook flying fish – it can be fried, pickled, or steamed in a savoury Creole sauce.
Creole sauce, a staple in many Caribbean cuisines, is comprised of a tomato base and infused with onions, garlic, peppers, and fresh herbs. Much like the Caribbean’s diverse cultural influences, the ingredients and flavours in Creole sauce vary from island to island, but the essence of fusion remains.
Cou-Cou, similar to African fufu, is a cornmeal-based savoury porridge, cooked with okra. This delicious dish embodies the resourcefulness of the island’s ancestors, using inexpensive, locally available ingredients paired with the culinary techniques from their African origins.
In this episode of the podcast we only scratched the surface of Barbados’ rich history, diverse culture, and mouth-watering cuisine. Each aspect we’ve discussed—be it the historical journey, cultural festivities, or the culinary delights—paints a vibrant picture of this Caribbean island.
Resources
- Slave Voyages
- Britannica
- The World Factbook
- Who Do You Think You Are?
- Recipe: Bajan Cou Cou and Flying Fish