A Simple Guide to Trinbagonian Vernacular

Introduction

HISTORY

Arawak (Taino) and Carib (Kalinago) Amerindians, the original inhabitants of Trinidad & Tobago, led a relatively peaceful existence cultivating tobacco (hence the reason Tobago got its name) until the islands' rediscovery by Christopher Columbus, who claimed them for Spain in 1498. The Amerindians first called Trinidad - Ieri, land of the Humming Bird, until Columbus renamed the island Holy Trinity, hence the name Trinidad. When the Spaniards discovered no precious metals on Trinidad, the Amerindians were enslaved and shipped off to work on other Caribbean settlements. A Spanish colony was founded on Trinidad in 1532.

Trinidad remained a Spanish possession from the 15th Century and the Cedula of Population in 1783, allowed French planters and their slaves to emigrate from the French colonies to the island. The British would capture Trinidad in 1797 and negotiate an amicable treaty of rule with the Spanish.

Over the ensuing centuries the islands became a battleground: fought over by the Dutch, French, Spanish and British, who left the fortifications to testify. Control switched hands some 30 times between the colonial powers, but a lucrative sugar plantation industry did develop. In the following years, enslaved Africans were brought in to work on sugar plantations and in 1802, the island became a British colony. After slavery was abolished by Britain, landowners imported thousands of indentured labourers from India, China and the Middle East. Then in 1857 came the discovery that would shape the country thereafter: oil.

Tobago came under British control in 1814. In 1888, Britain joined the smaller Tobago to Trinidad as an administrative ward and thence a single colony. The islands achieved independence from England in 1962 and became the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago in 1976.

Taken from:
http://www.gotrinidadandtobago.com/trinidad-tobago-history/
http://www.worldtravelguide.net/trinidad-and-tobago/history-language-culture

NATIONAL FLAG
(1.)

The national flag of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago is predominantly red with a white-edged black diagonal band from the upper hoist side to the lower fly side.
The national flag was designed by the Independence Committee and selected to be used as the National Flag in 1962.

Red is the colour most expressive of our country, it represents the vitality of the land and its people, it is the warmth and energy of the sun, the courage and friendliness of the people.

White is the sea by which these lands are bound; the cradle of our heritage; the purity of our aspirations and the equality of all men under the sun.

Black represents for us the dedication of the people joined together by one strong bond. It is the colour of strength, of unity, of purpose and of the wealth of the land.

The colours chosen represent the elements Earth (black), Water (white) and Fire (red) which encompass our past, present and future and inspire us as one united, vital, free and dedicated people.

Taken from:
http://www.ttmissions.com/?qa_faqs=5-what-do-the-colours-of-the-national-flag-of-trinidad-and-tobago-represent

COAT OF ARMS
(2.)

The Coat of Arms of Trinidad and Tobago was designed in 1962, by a committee of distinguished citizens established to select and design the country's national emblems. Committee members included noted artist Carlyle Chang and Carnival Designer George Bailey.