Republic Day is observed today in Trinidad and Tobago. This holiday commemorates the first session of the parliament on this day in 1976.
Trinidad and Tobago proclaimed its independence from Britain on August 31st 1962 with Queen Elizabeth II remaining as the head of state.
In 1976, Trinidad and Tobago decided to abolish the monarchy and become a republic within the Commonwealth. On August 1st 1976, the new constitution was promulgated, and the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago was proclaimed, with the last Governor-General, Sir Ellis Clarke, becoming the first President.
The 1st Republican Parliament of Trinidad and Tobago held its first session on September 24th 1976. It is this date that is marked by Republic Day. If it falls on Sunday the holiday is observed the following Monday.
Today is the birthday, in 1933, of American songwriter and a folk music artist Erik Darling. With The Tarriers their version of the ‘Banana Boat Song reached No. 4 on the Billboard chart. He was also a member of The Weavers, and had a 1963 US No.1 hit with ‘Walk Right In’ with the Rooftop Singers. That’s him with the 12-string guitar in this video. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z-qiC1jynmc
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