Founded in 1958, the West Indies Federation comprised the territories of Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Jamaica, Montserrat, St. Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla, Saint Lucia, St. Vincent, and Trinidad and Tobago. It was established by the British Caribbean Federation Act of 1956 with the aim of establishing a political union among its members. The administrative capital of the Federation was located in Trinidad and Tobago.

Among the major issues debated during the Federation's existence were: direct taxation by the Federal Government, central planning for development, establishment of a regional customs union, and reform of the Federal Constitution.

Accomplishments achieved during the Federation's existence included: creation of a federal civil service, establishment of the West Indies Shipping Service to operate two multipurpose ships, and establishment of the University College of the West Indies.

Disagreements over policies, an unwillingness of most Territorial Governments to give up power to the Federal Government, and other problems eventually caused discord within the Federation. Jamaica pulled out in 1961, and the Federation collapsed in January 1962.

Questions or comments about this page?