Caribbean Colonial Statistics from the British Empire, 1824-1950 - Key Data

The British colonised parts of the Caribbean between the seventeenth and mid-twentieth century, with some still remaining today. The United Kingdom controlled a large portion of territory, covering Jamaica, Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, the Bahamas, and many other islands. British colonial regulations required each colony to submit a “Blue Book” to the Colonial Office on an annual basis. The aim was to standardise statistical reports, primarily those relating to economic development, as well as demographic, ecclesiastical, and public records.

This collection contains Blue Books and other archival material from British colonies and protectorates in the Caribbean compiled during the period 1824–1950. The standardised nature of the Blue Books allows for comparisons to be drawn geographically (i.e. between colonies) and over time on issues and trends such as the slave trade, economic policy, education, and public health.