Fact 1.
The ancestors of modern humans migrated to the islands of Antigua and Barbuda as early as the 3rd millennium BCE, separating from the mainland and establishing the first settlements there. The original inhabitants of the archipelago were the Arawak tribes. Later, they were displaced and replaced by the more warlike Carib tribes. Until the arrival of Europeans, the islands were predominantly inhabited by indigenous peoples.
Fact 2.
Although Antigua and Barbuda were first discovered by Spanish sailors, Spain did not colonize these territories. Approximately half a century later, British colonists arrived on the islands and established settlements. The French attempted to take control of the region, but ultimately the archipelago remained under British rule for a long period.
Fact 3.
The names “Antigua” and “Barbuda” are translated from Spanish as “ancient” and “bearded,” respectively. The country also includes the small island of Redonda. With an area of only 1.6 km², this island has the status of a national park and has no permanent population. Nevertheless, Redonda is home to numerous rare species of birds.
Fact 4.
Despite its small size, Antigua and Barbuda is a powerful magnet for tourists. One of the main reasons is its more than 365 beaches, giving rise to the popular saying “one beach for every day of the year.”
Fact 5.
Until 1960, Antigua and Barbuda were part of the British colony known as the “Leeward Islands.” In 1981, the country gained full independence. Nevertheless, it remains a constitutional monarchy, and the British monarch is considered the nominal head of state. In 2019, this role was held by Queen Elizabeth II.
Fact 6.
Unlike many other island nations, Antigua and Barbuda do not suffer from a shortage of fresh water. The archipelago is composed of rocks capable of retaining moisture, which allows for the presence of underground freshwater reserves.
Fact 7.
British heritage is still strongly felt in the country’s cultural life today. The official language is English, and the most popular sport is cricket. Although Antiguan Creole is widely spoken among the population, residents of Antigua and Barbuda speak different dialects, adding richness to the country’s local identity.
Fact 8.
Approximately one-third of the country’s population lives in the capital city, St. John’s. Overall, the population of Antigua and Barbuda is fewer than 100,000 people. For comparison, some medium-sized cities in Russia have larger populations than the entire country.
Fact 9.
The backbone of Antigua and Barbuda’s economy is tourism, which generates more than half of the state’s revenue. Local residents are also actively engaged in fishing and the harvesting of crustaceans. In addition, the country is famous for producing one of the sweetest varieties of black pineapple in the world.
Fact 10.
Antigua and Barbuda is among the countries that offer citizenship by investment programs. Foreign nationals can obtain an Antiguan passport by purchasing real estate or investing in government funds. This program is accompanied by strict legal and due diligence checks.