40 Fascinating Facts About Saint Lucia | Page 29

SAINT LUCIA ROAD TO INDEPENDENCE "THE 1979 AND 1982 ELECTIONS MANY SAINT LUCIANS WERE AGAINST INDEPENDENCE 21 In 1979, Saint Lucia gained Independence from Great Britain on In addition to organized protests and marches, that disapproval showed in the polls when Sir John lost the elections in July of 1979, a mere five months after leading the nation to Independence. But victory for the opposition was short-lived due to leadership February 22nd. Sir John George struggles within the party. Fresh Melvin Compton had finally elections were called in 1982 and Sir achieved what he had been fighting John was once again became Prime for ever since his return to Saint Minister. In the ensuing years Sir John Lucia following his studies in won the heart of the people and England. served as prime minister on three occasions - briefly in 1979; 1982- 1996 But, at the time, many citizens were & 2006 - 2007. not convinced that Saint Lucia was ready to stand on its own. Sources: http://www.bbc.co.uk/caribbean/news/story/2007/09/070910_comptonbio.shtml https://stluciastar.com/independence-from-day-one-its-been-looshan-vs-looshan/ YouTube