Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, island nation in the West Indies, part of the Windward Islands in the Caribbean Sea, part of the British Commonwealth.

Land and climate

The principal island, St. Vincent (133 sq mi/344 sq km), is of volcanic origin, with a forested, mountainous spine running down the center of the island. It reaches 4,000 ft (1,219 m) at Soufrière, an active volcano peak that erupted in 1979, causing extensive crop damage and the evacuation of 20,000 people. The 5 small, main islands of the Grenadines extend to the southwest. The climate is tropical.

People

The majority of the inhabitants are descendants of slaves brought from Africa. Most of the population belongs to the Roman Catholic church; the official language is English.

Economy

Agriculture provides all exports, principally arrowroot and bananas, followed by spices and cacao. The small industrial sector mostly processes food crops. Tourism is also important.

History

St. Vincent was discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1498. Although both Britain and France subsequently contested control of the island, it was left largely to the Carib Indians until 1797 when, following a war with both the French and Caribs, the British deported most of the Indians. Full independence was achieved in 1979.