CULTURE
The 275,000 people who live
in The Bahamas are predominantly of West African descent. Their
ancestors were slaves brought to the islands to work the cotton
plantations until 1834, when Britain abolished slavery in all
its territories. Most white residents of are descendants of the
first English settlers, who emigrated from Bermuda in 1647 to
gain religious freedom. Some are also related to the Loyalists
who fled the southern United States during the American Revolution
and built enormous plantations here.
After the abolition of slavery,
life in the islands changed drastically. The plantations were
dissolved, and both blacks and whites turned to the bountiful
sea (sponging and fishing) or tried to farm. The lack of fertile
cropland prompted the islanders to become a nation of seafarers,
and Bahamians used these skills to great advantage during the
days of shipwrecking, gun running, and Prohibition.
Bahamians take great pride
in their past, especially their names, which are indicative of
a rich cultural legacy. There are many common names like the Gibsons,
reputedly from Scotland; the Alburys, Malones and Russells, said
to be Irish Loyalists; and the Eleuthera Bethels, who say they
came with those zealous adventurers years ago. It has been said
that the Bethels once spelled their name with two 'l's', but removed
one because of their religious convictions. The Black Bahamians'
roots go back just as far, as evidenced by the many who took the
name "Rolle," after Lord Rolle, a wealthy and much-loved
planter in Exuma who, after emancipation, gave his land to his
former slaves.
Religion is an integral part
of Bahamian life. Even the tiniest village has a church, sometimes
two. The people's religious ardor and high regard for education
are evidence of their Puritan heritage, derived from the Eleutheran
Adventurers. Music is also in the very bones of the people. African
rhythms, Caribbean Calypso, English folk songs and the uniquely
Bahamian Goombay beat echo in the air. The fast-tempoed "goom-bahhh"
resonating from the drums can be traced back to the days of slavery
and is used both for story-telling and dancing.
The legal and political institutions
of the country reflect its Anglo-Saxon heritage. It has a bicameral
parliamentary government composed of a Senate and a House of Assembly,
a Prime Minister, an Attorney General, and an independent Judiciary,
including a Supreme Court and a Court of Appeals. The Changing
of the Guard ceremony, held every two weeks, continues the British
tradition, and Bahamian policeman pride themselves on their starched
uniforms. Many will not put on their shirts until they are on
duty to preserve their formal appearance, which is quite impressive.
The
laid-back attitude of Bahamians is often misunderstood by those
unaware that it evolves from years of a good life in a land where
nature provides every need. There is always time to worry about
the bad things tomorrow. Bahamians are humorous, helpful people
who love to celebrate. Don't get too angry if you want to go shopping
and everything is closed. It's probably the Queen's Birthday or
some other holiday. Weddings and funerals in The Bahamas are especially
important social events. People begin celebrating a marriage weeks
before the official ceremony begins, and the passing of loved
ones is commemorated by parties long after they are gone.
[Source: Bahamas
Ministry of Tourism]
