Short answers, pulled from the story.
Antigua and Barbuda gained full independence on the 1st of November 1981. Vere Bird, who had led the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party, became the country's first prime minister. The country chose to remain within the Commonwealth, with Elizabeth II as head of state.
Hurricane Irma struck Barbuda on the 6th of September 2017 with wind speeds reaching 295 km/h, damaging or destroying 95% of the island's buildings and infrastructure. Nearly all of Barbuda's approximately 1,800 residents were evacuated to Antigua. Rebuilding costs were estimated at at least $100 million.
The most widely spoken home language is Antiguan and Barbudan Creole, with three native varieties: North Antiguan, South Antiguan, and Barbudan. Antiguan and Barbudan English is the unofficial working language used by government and in business. Cabinet designated Spanish as an official language on the 14th of May 2026.
Prince Klaas was an enslaved person who in 1728 proposed making Antigua an independent kingdom. In 1736 he led a planned revolt against the colonial slave system, though authorities discovered the plot before it began and executed the ringleaders.
Tourism dominates the economy, accounting for more than half of GDP, with Antigua particularly known for five-star resorts. Financial services form the second major sector, with international banks and accounting firms maintaining offices on the island. Manufacturing makes up only 2% of GDP.
The Antigua black pineapple was introduced to the islands by the Saladoid people who migrated from the lower Orinoco River during the pre-Columbian ceramic age. It is prized for its juicy, sweet flesh and is considered the sweetest variety of pineapple. It remains a feature of regional dishes and sweets.