Cultural Connections in Antigua

What ethnic groups has shaped Antigua's culture?

Antigua has many ethnic groups grouped together to create their culture. The people of Antigua have a mix of Amerindian, West African, and British culture and traditions. The British settled in Antigua in 1623 which is why their are a British culture here. Africans were later brought to Antigua as slaves which is how the Afro-Antiguan culture came about.

Antigua Carnival

The Antigua carnival is an event held every year from the end of July through the first Tuesday in August. On the most important day also known as J'ouvert, brass and steel bands perform for the island. The history of the carnival came about when slavery was first abolished on the first of August in 1834. On the day slavery was abolished people instantly ran out and began to dance and celebrate their freedom. The people of Antigua continuously celebrated the emancipation of slavery every year this day until it was officially organized in 1957. The Antigua carnival festivals have colorful costumes, talent shows, and good music and it's a great time to visit.

How their culture has influenced their festivals

Antigua history and culture has influenced their Antigua Carnival because the emancipation of slavery was the reason their carnival was created. Antigua has many ethnic groups bonded and grouped together so it is important that they celebrate their freedom especially for the Afro-Antiguan group.

Sources

“Antigua and Barbuda.” Countries and Their Cultures, www.everyculture.com/A-Bo/Antigua-And-Barbuda.html.

“ANTIGUA CARNIVAL.” Antigua Carnival, www.antiguanice.com/v2/client.php?id=454&cat=94. Accessed 18 March 2021.

“Antigua Carnival.” Visit Antigua & Barbuda, 27 Mar. 2020, visitantiguabarbuda.com/antigua-carnival-2018/.

GoAntiguaBarbuda, director. ANTIGUA CARNIVAL 2019 - The Caribbean's Greatest Summer Festival. YouTube, YouTube, 11 Feb. 2019, www.youtube.com/watch?v=tblacuR6Lcc.

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