Barrow, Errol

Barrow, Errol, 1920–87, prime minister of Barbados (1966–76, 1986–87). After serving as a British Royal Air Force pilot and navigator (1940–47), he obtained (1949) a law degree in London, returned to Barbados, and entered politics. He was named finance minister in 1959 and became chief executive in 1961. Barrow led his country to independence within the Commonwealth of Nations (1966) and became its first prime minister. He encouraged foreign investment, promoted agricultural diversification and industrial development, and furthered tourism. He also advocated close ties with other Caribbean nations.

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