Eric Eustace Williams

Eric Eustace Williams, a native of Trinidad and Tobago, is often referred to as “Father of the Nation.” As one of the most significant leaders in Trinidad and Tobago’s modern history, Williams formed the People’s National Movement (PNM), a political party that promotes self-governance within the community and throughout the nation. Since its inception in 1956, the PNM has maintained prominence with aims to improve economic access, support political education, and enhance social programs through active engagement in the democratic process. Currently, more than half of the elected officials in Trinidad and Tobago’s House of Representatives are members of the PNM. In addition to spearheading the formation of the PNM, Williams was outspoken about Trinidad and Tobago’s inevitable constitutional reform which was needed to address concerns about sustainable industry, sufficient opportunities for employment, and political stability. His efforts, in part, led to the independence of Trinidad and Tobago in 1962. Williams’ scholarly contributions include literature focused on colonialism and the impact of the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade in the Caribbean. This chapter examines how Williams’ principles and philosophy rooted in self-governance influenced the PNM policy agenda from its inception until present day and, in turn, Trinidad and Tobago’s national development over the past 60 years. It also discusses how active, informed political engagement with a consistent focus on self-governance led by an African can support political stabilization and result in significant economic growth in a new Africa during this era of globalization.