The eastern Caribbean nation of Barbados was historically
heavily dependent on the export of sugar as its main revenue
earner, but in recent decades the economy has diversified into
tourism and offshore finance. Known for its beaches and cricket
- its national sport - the former British colony has a dual
heritage: English - evident in its stone-built Anglican churches
and Saturday race meetings - and African, reflected in its music
and dance. At a glance - Politics: Freundel Stuart first became
prime minister after his predecessor died in office in 2010. His
Democratic Labour Party was narrowly re-elected in 2013 -
Economy: Tourism, financial services and the sugar industry are
economic mainstays Country profiles compiled by BBC Monitoring
Barbados is one of the more populous and prosperous Caribbean
islands. Political, economic and social stability have given it
one of the highest standards of living in the developing world.
As well as being a centre for financial services, it also has
offshore reserves of o