West Indian Federation (1958–1962)

The West Indian Federation, established in 1958, was the first major attempt at both political and economic integration in the English-speaking Caribbean. It was led by prominent and highly educated leaders: Norman Manley (Jamaica), Eric Williams (Trinidad and Tobago), and Grantley Adams (Barbados). Although it achieved some successes, the Federation was dissolved in 1962 and is generally regarded as a failed experiment.

Member States

• Trinidad and Tobago
• Jamaica
• Barbados
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Dominica
• Grenada
• Montserrat
• St. Kitts, Nevis, and Anguilla
• St. Lucia
• St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Aims of the Federation

• To encourage and strengthen integration among member countries.
• To demonstrate to Britain that the territories were prepared for independence.
• To safeguard democracy in the region against dictatorship and communism.
• To promote economic growth and development.
• To advance the cause of self-government.

Achievements

• Helped transition member states from colonial rule to independence.
• Enabled smaller states to unite in negotiations with larger international organizations, such as the United Nations.
• Established technical schools in the Leeward Islands.

Reasons for Failure

• Inadequate Funding – The total revenue collected (£2 million) was insufficient to finance projects and activities.
• Unequal Financial Burden – Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago contributed 82% of total funds (Jamaica 43%, Trinidad 39%), leading to resentment over perceived unfairness.
• Concerns Over Migration – Larger territories feared free movement would lead to an influx of unskilled migrants, unemployment, and overcrowding in urban areas.
• Perceived Dominance of Larger States – Smaller islands believed the larger ones unfairly controlled the Federation, highlighted by the decision to locate the Federal capital in Chaguaramas, Trinidad.
• Public Ignorance – Many citizens did not fully understand the purpose or benefits of a federation.
• Poor Communication Systems – Inefficient transport and communication hindered unity.
• Economic Disparities – Differences in development levels bred jealousy and rivalry among territories.
• Distrust Over Constitutional Changes – Smaller states were suspicious of proposals from larger territories to amend the Federal constitution.
• Unequal Gains – Larger territories felt they had less to benefit, while smaller territories feared delayed development.
• Overrepresentation of Smaller States – Disproportionate representation in the Federal government caused tension.
• British Strategic Intent – Britain saw the Federation as a way to transfer responsibility for the smaller islands to the larger ones.

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In 1961, Jamaica withdrew from the Federation. Prime Minister Eric Williams of Trinidad and Tobago famously responded, “One from ten leaves zero.” Four months later, Trinidad and Tobago also withdrew. Without these two largest members, the West Indian Federation was officially dissolved in 1962.