Independence part1

No.5

Guyana’s struggle for independence from British rule, culminating in its independence on May 26, 1966, was marked by significant political and social challenges. These challenges stemmed from racial and economic tensions between various ethnic groups, leading to disturbances and political instability in the years leading up to independence.

Early Stages of the Struggle:

Post-World War II Decolonization:

After World War II, the British government began decolonizing its overseas territories, including British Guiana.

Political Parties and Elections:

The emergence of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) and the People’s National Congress (PNC) shaped the political landscape, with the PPP gaining significant support among Afro-Guyanese.

Racial and Economic Tensions:

Racial tensions and economic inequalities between different ethnic groups, primarily Afro-Guyanese and Indo-Guyanese, became prominent.

Delays and Challenges to Independence:

Inter-party Conflicts:

Political leaders from the PPP and PNC, as well as other parties, struggled to reach agreement on key aspects of the new constitution and the structure of the independent government.

British Intervention:

The British Colonial Office intervened in 1964, imposing a new electoral system (proportional representation) and another election to try to address the political deadlock, says Wikipedia.

1964 Elections:

The 1964 elections, held under the new system, led to a coalition government between the PNC and the United Force (UF).

Independence and its Aftermath:

Granting of Independence: The British government formally granted independence to British Guiana, which became Guyana on May 26, 1966.

The Republic of Guyana: Guyana transitioned to a republic on February 23, 1970.

Continued Challenges: Despite achieving independence, Guyana continued to grapple with the legacy of racial and ethnic divisions, which would impact its political and social development in the years following independence.