kids encyclopedia robot

Guyana (1966–1970) facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Quick facts for kids
Guyana

1966–1970
Coat of arms of Guyana
Coat of arms
Motto: "One people, one nation, one destiny"
Anthem: 
Dear Land of Guyana, of Rivers and Plains
Location of Guyana
Capital Georgetown
Common languages Official
English
Vernacular language
Guyanese Creole
Government Constitutional monarchy
Queen  
• 1966–1970
Elizabeth II
Governor-General  
• 1966
Richard Luyt
• 1966–1969
David Rose
• 1969–1970
Edward Luckhoo
Prime Minister  
• 1966–1970
Forbes Burnham
History  
• Independence
26 May 1966
• Republic
23 February 1970
Currency Guyanese dollar
Preceded by
Succeeded by
British Guiana
Guyana
Today part of  Guyana

Guyana was an independent country that existed for a short time, from 1966 to 1970. It was the country before the Co-operative Republic of Guyana we know today.

History

Becoming Independent

On May 26, 1966, British rule in Guyana officially ended. This was a big day because it meant Guyana became an independent country, no longer controlled by the United Kingdom. Before this, it was known as British Guiana.

Even though Guyana was independent, Elizabeth II was still recognized as the Queen of Guyana. However, she did not live in Guyana or visit during this time. Her duties were mostly handled by a special representative called the Governor-General of Guyana. During this period, Forbes Burnham was the Prime Minister, leading the government of Guyana.

Becoming a Republic

Guyana remained a monarchy for a few years. Then, on February 23, 1970, Guyana became a republic. This meant that the Queen was no longer the head of state. Instead, Guyana would have its own president.

After becoming a republic, Sir Edward Luckhoo, who had been the Governor-General, temporarily became the first President of Guyana.

Governors-General

The Governor-General was the Queen's representative in Guyana. Here are the people who held this important role during Guyana's time as an independent state:

  1. Sir Richard Luyt (May 26, 1966 – December 16, 1966)
  2. Sir David Rose (December 16, 1966 – November 10, 1969)
  3. Sir Edward Luckhoo (November 10, 1969 – July 1, 1970)

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Reino de Guyana para niños

kids search engine
Guyana (1966–1970) Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.