Errol Barrow, the first prime minister of Barbados, was born on January 21, 1920. He was the son of Rev. Reginald Grant Barrow and Ruth Albertha, and he grew up with four siblings. Barrow attended Wesley Hall Boys School before earning a scholarship to Combermere School. After one year at Combermere, he was admitted to Harrison College, where he excelled academically.
Barrow's education paved the way for a successful career in law and politics. After completing his studies, he pursued a career in law and became a prominent lawyer in Barbados. He also served as a WWII aviator and combat veteran before entering politics.
Barrow's political career began in the late 1950s when he became a member of the Barbados Labour Party. In 1961, he co-founded the Democratic Labour Party and quickly rose through the ranks. He was elected as the first prime minister of Barbados in 1966, making history as the country's first leader.
Throughout his tenure as prime minister, Barrow implemented numerous reforms and initiatives aimed at improving the lives of Barbadian citizens. He was known for his progressive policies and commitment to social justice, earning him the admiration of many.
In November 1945, Barrow married Carolyn Marie Plaskett, with whom he had two children, Lesley and David. Later on, he had a son named Eric with Thelma Padmore in the late 1950s. Despite the challenges and demands of his political career, Barrow remained devoted to his family and cherished the time he spent with them.
Errol Barrow's legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of the people of Barbados. He is remembered as a visionary leader who fought tirelessly for the rights and well-being of his fellow citizens. His contributions to politics, law, and society have left a lasting impact on Barbados and continue to inspire future generations.
On June 1, 1987, Errol Barrow passed away, leaving behind a legacy of courage, compassion, and dedication. His memory is honored and revered by all who knew him, and his influence continues to shape the future of Barbados.
In her autobiography, the legendary singer Nina Simone claimed to have had an affair with Barrow, highlighting the impact he had on people from all walks of life. He was not just a politician but a man of many talents, including gourmet cooking and writing.
Errol Barrow's life was marked by dedication, passion, and a relentless pursuit of progress. His legacy as the first prime minister of Barbados will forever be engraved in the history books, and his impact on the world will never be forgotten.