Coat of arms of Barbados

Coat of arms of Barbados is the official heraldic symbol representing the island nation of Barbados. Granted by Royal Warrant of Queen Elizabeth II on 14 February 1966, the coat of arms was designed to symbolize the independence of Barbados from the United Kingdom and its cultural heritage. The coat of arms holds significant meaning and is a source of pride for the people of Barbados, encapsulating the spirit, history, and aspirations of the nation.

Description

The coat of arms of Barbados is composed of several elements, each with its own symbolic meaning. At the center is a gold shield, which is divided into two parts. The lower section of the shield features the national flower of Barbados, the Pride of Barbados (Caesalpinia pulcherrima), against a gold background. The upper section displays a bearded fig tree (Ficus citrifolia), which is a reference to the island's name; early Portuguese explorers named the island "Los Barbados" (The Bearded Ones), inspired by the long, hanging roots of the fig trees.

Above the shield, a helmet with a mantling of gold and blue is placed, symbolizing the tropical environment of Barbados. On top of the helmet sits a hand holding two sugar cane stalks in saltire, representing the sugar industry, which has been a significant part of Barbados's economy and history.

Supporting the shield on either side are a pelican and a dolphin, standing on a compartment of sugar cane. The pelican symbolizes a pelican island that was once a landmark of Barbados, while the dolphin represents the fishing industry and the surrounding Atlantic Ocean.

Below the shield, the motto of Barbados, "Pride and Industry," is inscribed on a scroll. This motto reflects the values and aspirations of the Barbadian people, emphasizing the importance of dignity, self-respect, and hard work.

Symbolism

The coat of arms of Barbados is rich in symbolism, with each element carefully chosen to reflect aspects of Barbadian culture, history, and environment. The Pride of Barbados flower and the bearded fig tree are indigenous to the island and highlight its natural beauty. The sugar cane is a nod to the island's history of sugar production, which played a crucial role in its economy for centuries. The pelican and dolphin are symbols of the island's connection to the sea, emphasizing the importance of marine life to Barbadian livelihoods and culture.

Usage

The coat of arms is used by the government of Barbados and appears on official documents, currency, and national awards. It is also a symbol of national pride and is used in various forms throughout the island, including in educational institutions and public celebrations.

Conclusion

The coat of arms of Barbados is a powerful symbol that encapsulates the essence of the nation. It reflects the island's history, culture, and aspirations, serving as a source of pride and identity for Barbadians. Through its intricate design and symbolism, the coat of arms tells the story of Barbados, its people, and their connection to the land and sea.