Afro-Bahamian facts for kids
| Total population | |
|---|---|
| c.400,000 | |
| Regions with significant populations | |
 Bahamas circa 344,844 (2017) United States of America circa 55,000 (2015) |
|
| Languages | |
| Bahamian dialect, English | |
| Religion | |
| Christianity, Islam, Rastafarism |
Afro-Bahamians are people from The Bahamas who have ancestors from Africa. Most of their families originally came from West Africa. Today, Afro-Bahamians are the largest group of people living in the Bahamas.
The first Africans arrived in The Bahamas from Bermuda. They came with a group called the Eleutheran Adventurers. These were people who wanted to start a new life. Many of the Africans who came with them were formerly enslaved people. They were looking for freedom and a new home.
Contents
Who Are Afro-Bahamians?
Afro-Bahamians are the main ethnic group in The Bahamas. They make up about 85% of the country's total population. This means that most people you meet in the Bahamas are Afro-Bahamian.
Where Do Afro-Bahamians Live?
Most Afro-Bahamians live in The Bahamas. However, many also live in other countries. The United States of America is home to a large number of Afro-Bahamians. They often move there for work or family reasons.
What Languages Do They Speak?
The main language spoken by Afro-Bahamians is English. This is the official language of The Bahamas. They also speak a unique local language called Bahamian dialect. This dialect is a mix of English and African languages. It has its own special words and sounds.
What Are Their Beliefs?
Most Afro-Bahamians follow the Christian faith. There are many different Christian churches in the Bahamas. Some Afro-Bahamians also follow Islam or Rastafarism. These religions are also part of the diverse culture of the islands.
History of Afro-Bahamians
The story of Afro-Bahamians began centuries ago. Their ancestors were brought from Africa to the Caribbean. Many arrived during the time of the transatlantic slave trade. However, the first Africans in the Bahamas came as free people.
The Eleutheran Adventurers
In the 17th century, a group called the Eleutheran Adventurers came to the Bahamas. They were English settlers looking for religious freedom. They brought with them some Africans who had been freed from slavery. These brave people helped to build the first settlements. They worked hard to create a new society.
Growth of the Community
Over time, more Africans arrived in the Bahamas. Many were brought from other islands or directly from Africa. They worked on plantations and helped develop the islands. After slavery ended, Afro-Bahamians continued to build their communities. They worked to gain more rights and opportunities.
Modern Afro-Bahamian Life
Today, Afro-Bahamians have a much better quality of life. They have more opportunities than their ancestors. Many Afro-Bahamians are leaders in their communities. They work in government, business, and education.
Culture and Traditions
Afro-Bahamian culture is rich and vibrant. It is a blend of African, European, and Caribbean influences. Music, dance, and storytelling are very important. Festivals like Junkanoo are a big part of their traditions. Junkanoo is a colorful parade with music and dancing. It celebrates Bahamian history and spirit.
Contributions to Society
Afro-Bahamians have made many important contributions. They have shaped the history and culture of The Bahamas. Their hard work and resilience helped build the nation. They continue to play a key role in the country's development.
