West Indians Federations (1958)

This was the first attempt at integration in the Caribbean. Ten (10) countries signed a multilateral agreement to cooperate.

Aim of Federation

This main aim was to reduce dependence on Britain and achieve independence. This meant self-governance. However, in 1962, the Federation was disbanded when Jamaica and later on Trinidad and Tobago left.

Federation Achievements

1. It facilitated the movement from colonialism to Indenpendance through a united voice.
2. Cooperation in tertiary education. Today it is University of the west Indies.
3. Cooperation in shipping- West Indian shipping service.

Reasons for failure in 1962

1. The people were not educated on the importance of federation.
2. Communication was inefficient (Shipping, postal services, telephone)
3. Envy and jealousy among members of States. Smaller countries feared larger countries would dominate.
4. Diasagreement on where the capital should be (Capital was Trinidad)

5.Jamaica felt Federation was holding back independance from Britian.