August 31st 1962 Independence Day for my country, Trinidad & Tobago. I could only imagine the pride the nation felt breaking loose from the British Empire. Dr. Williams’ words were well chosen and eloquently delivered. NB his definition of democracy. We didn’t get here overnight. Here are some key moments in our history July 31st 1498 Columbus and crew see the coast of the land Iere. He chose his own name for the island, Trinidad, ‘Claiming’ the island as a Spanish colony. 1783 Cedula of the Population brings Thousands to the island. Many who came were french planters and their African captives. February 18th 1797 A massive British army of 10,000 under the command of Sir Ralph Abercromby men march onto Trinidad. February 21st 1797 Spanish Governor Jose Maria Chacone surrenders to Abercromby and his men. The island, formerly known as Iere, now known as Trinidad becomes a British Colony with Lieutenant General Sir Thomas Picton being installed as Governor. 1833 British government passed the Emancipation Bill announcing the end to the institution of African enslavement beginning August 1, 1834 with the stipulation that agricultural slaves would have to continue to work as “apprentices” for six years, while domestic slaves would receive their full freedom. Apprenticeship ended on August 1, 1838 which is now commemorated as Emancipation Day. 1881 Canboulay Riots 1932 Young Eric Williams wins a scholarship to study at Oxford. 1948 Dr. Williams returns to Trinidad to become Deputy Chairman of the Caribbean Research Council 1955 Dr. Williams starts giving public lectures to large audiences in Woodford Square after his contract with Caribbean research council was not renewed. 1956 He the forms the People’s National Movement. I write all this to say, everything is a result of something, or a few things. Big things take time, movements take persistence, strategy, patience and drive. Use what you have, do what you can. Wishing my nation peace and prosperity as we strive to continue growing with our watchwords in mind : Discipline, Production & Tolerance. HAPPY 60th INDEPENDENCE!! #massadaydone #fuckcolonialism