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Thursday, 24 July, 2008
About The Bahamas | About the Islands | Activities | Accommodation | Bahamas Events | Tour Operators | Travel Agents | Request a Brochure
Bahamian culture has embraced a wealth of native customs from the indigenous "Indian" people who populated The Islands of the Bahamas over the centuries. Then, in 1647, Bahamian culture suddenly underwent an abrupt change when the English Puritans settled on the island of Eleuthera.
It has further evolved over the past four centuries, witnessing the arrival of Bermudan slaves and free blacks, British Loyalists (accompanied by slaves) fleeing America after the War of Independence, freed Africans from slave ships, black Seminoles from Florida, people from other Caribbean islands, and Chinese, Syrian and Greek immigrants.
These people, with their different backgrounds, traditions and beliefs, shaped Bahamian culture into the unique, colourful patchwork of life and lifestyles that it is today.
The Islands of the Bahamas gained independence from Great Britain on 10 July 1973, which is celebrated as Bahamian Independence Day. As a member of the British Commonwealth, The Bahamas has a symbolic link to Great Britain, with an appointed Governor-General representing the queen of England. For a prime example of British influence on Bahamian government, go and see the Changing of the Guards. There is much pomp and ceremony, and the Royal Bahamas Police Force Band also performs. The ceremony takes place at Government House (the office and residence of the Governor-General) in Nassau every two weeks.
