The multi-island country of St Vincent and the Grenadines is a land of contrasts. St Vincent – the main population centre – is mountainous and lush. Rainforests thrive in the interior and La Soufriere, an active volcano which last erupted in 1979, dominates the north.
Saint Vincent was granted “associate statehood” status by Britain on 27 October 1969. This gave Saint Vincent complete control over its internal affairs but was short of full independence. On 27 October 1979, following a referendum under Milton Cato, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines became the last of the Windward Islands to gain independence. Independence came on the 10th anniversary of Saint Vincent’s associate statehood status.
As we gather to enjoy your Independence Day and honor the rich history of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, we wish all Vincentians a peaceful holiday celebration and a prosperous year.
Happy 33rd Independence to all Vincentians worldwide!
