It was colonised by the English in 1632 and apart from a brief French occupation in 1667, remained British until becoming an 'Associated State' in 1967. The islands attained full independence on November 1, 1981. In the late 18th century the islands served as a major naval dockyard for the British fleet in the Eastern Caribbean. Last elections were held in 1999. In the post-hurricane period, economic activity was dominated by reconstruction and rehabilitation work.
Government policies support the broadening of the economic base.
There have been renewed efforts to enhance the manufacturing industry in Antigua. The financial services sector has continued to expand. Recovery in the tourism sector has resulted from rehabilitation efforts and new marketing strategies. Tourism is the major contributor to the economy. Closed on Thursday afternoons.