# Grenada

> island sovereign state in the Caribbean Sea

**Wikidata**: [Q769](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q769)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grenada)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/grenada

## Summary

Grenada is a country located in North America [1]. It was established on January 1, 1974 . The nation has a population of 114,000 as of 2023 [2] and covers an area of 348.5 . Grenada operates in the UTC−04:00 time zone, also known as America/Grenada [3].

## Summary

Grenada is an island sovereign state located in the Caribbean Sea, known as "the Spice Isle" for its production of nutmeg and mace. It achieved independence from the United Kingdom on February 7, 1974, and operates as a Commonwealth realm with Charles III as head of state. The country comprises the island of Grenada and the smaller islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique, with a population of approximately 114,299 people as of 2023.

## Key Facts

- **Official Name:** Grenada (also known as "la Grenade")
- **Capital:** St. George's
- **Area:** 348.5 square kilometres
- **Population:** 114,299 (2023 estimation, preferred value)
- **Independence:** 1974 (February 7, 1974)
- **Coordinates:** Latitude 12.1°, Longitude -61.7°
- **Continent:** North America
- **Timezone:** UTC−04:00
- **Currency:** Eastern Caribbean dollar
- **Official Languages:** English, Grenadian Creole English
- **Driving Side:** Left
- **Electrical Voltage:** 230V, 50Hz
- **Electrical Plug Type:** BS 1363
- **ISO Codes:** GD (alpha-2), GRD (alpha-3), 308 (numeric)
- **Telephone Country Code:** +1473
- **Internet Domain:** .gd
- **Highest Point:** Mount Saint Catherine
- **Lowest Point:** Caribbean Sea (0 metres)
- **Head of State:** Charles III (since September 8, 2022)
- **Head of Government:** Dickon Mitchell (since 2022)
- **Legislative Body:** Parliament of Grenada
- **Highest Judicial Authority:** Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court
- **National Anthem:** "Hail Grenada" (official), "God Save the King" (royal anthem)
- **Motto:** "Ever Conscious of God We Aspire, Build and Advance as One People"
- **Tourism Slogan:** "Pure Grenada"
- **Life Expectancy:** 75 years (2022)
- **Human Development Index:** 0.795 (2021)
- **Nominal GDP:** $1,256,413,185 USD (2022)
- **VAT Rate:** 15%
- **Marriageable Age:** 21 years (all genders)
- **Emergency Numbers:** 911 (general), 434, 724, 774 (medical services)

## FAQs

**What type of government does Grenada have?**
Grenada is a Commonwealth realm and sovereign island state with a parliamentary democracy. Charles III serves as head of state, represented by a Governor-General, while the Prime Minister heads the government. The legislative body is the Parliament of Grenada.

**What are the administrative divisions of Grenada?**
Grenada is divided into six parishes: Saint Andrew, Saint David, Saint George, Saint John, Saint Mark, and Saint Patrick. It also includes the islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique.

**What international organizations is Grenada a member of?**
Grenada is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations (since 1974), United Nations (since September 17, 1974), Caribbean Community (since May 1, 1974), World Trade Organization, ALBA, Petrocaribe, Organization of American States, UNESCO, WHO, Interpol, and the Caribbean Development Bank, among others.

**What is Grenada's economic profile?**
Grenada has a nominal GDP of approximately $1.26 billion USD as of 2022, with a Human Development Index of 0.795 (2021). The country is known for its spice production, particularly nutmeg (earning the nickname "the Spice Isle"), as well as tourism and agricultural exports.

**What is Grenada known for culturally?**
Grenada is renowned for its production of nutmeg and mace, earning it the nickname "the Spice Isle." The national anthem is "Hail Grenada," and the country celebrates its independence annually on February 7. The official tourism slogan is "Pure Grenada."

**What are Grenada's geographical features?**
Grenada is part of the Lesser Antilles and Windward Antilles in the Caribbean Sea. The highest point is Mount Saint Catherine, while the lowest point is sea level at the Caribbean Sea. The island lies at coordinates 12.1°N, 61.7°W.

**What languages are spoken in Grenada?**
The official languages are English and Grenadian Creole English. Saint Lucian Creole is also present. English serves as the primary language for government, education, and business.

**What is Grenada's relationship with other countries?**
Grenada maintains diplomatic relations with numerous countries including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Barbados, Cuba, Trinidad and Tobago, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, China, and others. It was previously on the EU tax haven blacklist until January 23, 2018.

## Why It Matters

Grenada holds significant regional and global importance despite its small size. As one of the Commonwealth realm island nations in the Caribbean, it serves as a model for small island developing states (SIDS) navigating the challenges of economic sustainability, climate change vulnerability, and political stability. The country's nickname "the Spice Isle" reflects its substantial contribution to the global spice trade, particularly nutmeg and mace, which remain key agricultural exports and identity markers.

The nation's political stability as a functioning parliamentary democracy within the Commonwealth framework demonstrates how small island states can maintain effective governance structures. Grenada's membership in multiple international organizations, including the United Nations, CARICOM, OAS, and WTO, reflects its active engagement in global affairs and commitment to multilateral cooperation.

Geographically, Grenada occupies a strategic position in the Southern Caribbean, forming part of the Windward Islands chain that separates the Caribbean Sea from the Atlantic Ocean. This location has historically made the island significant for maritime navigation and, unfortunately, also made it a target for colonial powers seeking Caribbean territory.

The country's cultural significance extends beyond its borders through its music, carnival celebrations, and culinary traditions that blend African, French, and British influences. Grenadian athletes have also made their mark internationally, particularly in cricket and track and field, contributing to the nation's sporting reputation within the Caribbean region.

## Notable For

- **Spice Production:** Known as "the Spice Isle," Grenada is one of the world's leading producers of nutmeg and mace
- **Mount Saint Catherine:** The highest peak in Grenada, offering hiking opportunities and panoramic views
- **St. George's Harbour:** Considered one of the most picturesque harbours in the Caribbean
- **Underwater Sculpture Park:** A unique marine attraction near Grenada
- **Grand Étang Forest Reserve:** A preserved area of tropical rainforest with hiking trails and wildlife
- **Historical Significance:** Site of the 1983 U.S. military intervention (Operation Urgent Fury)
- **Chocolate Production:** Emerging craft chocolate industry using locally grown cacao
- **Whale Watching:** The waters around Grenada are home to sperm whales year-round
- **Diving and Snorkelling:** Known for coral reefs, shipwrecks, and marine biodiversity
- **Carnival Celebration:** "Spice Mas" carnival is a major annual cultural event

## Body

### History and Political Development

Grenada's modern political history reflects the broader decolonization movement in the Caribbean. The country achieved independence from the United Kingdom on February 7, 1974, following a path similar to other Eastern Caribbean islands. The nation operates as a Commonwealth realm, maintaining constitutional ties to the British Crown while exercising full sovereignty over domestic affairs.

The country follows the West Indies Federation in its political development, having transitioned through various colonial statuses before achieving full independence. As a Commonwealth realm, Charles III serves as head of state, with the Governor-General representing royal authority. The current head of state has held the position since September 8, 2022.

The parliamentary system functions with the Prime Minister as head of government. Dickon Mitchell has served as Prime Minister since 2022, succeeding Keith Mitchell who held the position from 2013 to 2022. The Parliament of Grenada serves as the legislative body, while the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court provides judicial oversight.

### Geography and Natural Environment

Grenada occupies a total area of 348.5 square kilometres, making it one of the smaller independent nations in the Caribbean. The island is located at coordinates 12.1°N latitude and 61.7°W longitude, placing it in the southern portion of the Windward Islands chain. The country includes not only the main island of Grenada but also the smaller islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique.

The terrain is predominantly volcanic in origin, with mountainous interior regions rising to Mount Saint Catherine as the highest point. The lowest elevation is at sea level along the Caribbean coastline. The island's geographical position places it within the Lesser Antilles and Windward Antilles, regions known for their volcanic origins and tropical climate.

The surrounding waters of the Caribbean Sea provide significant marine ecosystems, with coral reefs, underwater formations, and marine wildlife supporting both ecological diversity and tourism economic activity. The country's location in the Southern Caribbean places it outside the primary hurricane belt, though it remains vulnerable to tropical storms.

### Administrative Structure

Grenada is administratively divided into six parishes: Saint Andrew, Saint David, Saint George, Saint John, Saint Mark, and Saint Patrick. These parishes handle local administrative functions and represent the historical colonial division of the island. The islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique, located north of the main island, maintain separate administrative status as dependencies.

The capital city, St. George's, located in Saint George Parish, serves as the political, economic, and cultural centre of the nation. The city is known for its harbour, colonial architecture, and proximity to government institutions.

### Demographics and Population

The population of Grenada was approximately 114,299 as of 2023, according to estimation data. Historical census data shows population trends from 1960 through 2011, with notable growth periods in the early 1980s and steady increases in the 2000s and 2010s. The 2011 census recorded a population of 106,669, while the 2001 census documented 103,137 residents.

The population divides roughly evenly between male (53,898 in 2011) and female (52,771 in 2011) populations based on census data. Urban population has been growing, with approximately 46,246 residents in urban areas as of 2022, compared to 79,192 in rural areas. The population demonstrates a predominantly young demographic structure, with a median age reflecting the Caribbean regional pattern.

The demonym for Grenada's citizens varies across languages and cultures, with "Grenadian" being the most common English designation. The term reflects the island's name while incorporating the standard suffix for nationality.

### Economy and Trade

Grenada operates with a mixed economy heavily dependent on agriculture, tourism, and services sectors. The nominal GDP reached approximately $1.256 billion USD in 2022, representing steady economic activity for a small island state. The GDP figure reflects the country's economic scale and its integration into regional and global trade networks.

The agricultural sector remains significant, with nutmeg and mace production being particularly notable. These spices have earned Grenada its "Spice Isle" nickname and represent important export commodities. Other agricultural products include cocoa, bananas, and various tropical fruits.

The tourism sector contributes substantially to foreign exchange earnings, with visitors attracted to the island's beaches, diving sites, and cultural attractions. The "Pure Grenada" tourism slogan emphasizes the island's natural beauty and authentic Caribbean experience.

The currency used is the Eastern Caribbean dollar, managed by the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank. The country maintains a value-added tax (VAT) rate of 15% on goods and services. The country code for economic identification includes ISO 3166-1 codes (GD, GRD, 308) and various international trade classification systems.

### International Memberships and Relations

Grenada maintains membership in numerous international organizations reflecting its commitment to multilateral cooperation and regional integration. The country joined the United Nations on September 17, 1974, shortly after achieving independence, demonstrating its immediate integration into the international community.

The Commonwealth of Nations membership, also dating to 1974, connects Grenada with a global network of former British territories and promotes ongoing political and cultural ties. The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) membership, effective May 1, 1974, positions Grenada within regional integration efforts including the Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME).

Additional memberships include the World Trade Organization, ALBA (Bolivarian Alliance for the Peoples of Our America), Petrocaribe, Organization of American States (OAS), UNESCO, WHO, Interpol, and the Caribbean Development Bank. The country has also joined specialized agencies including the International Telecommunication Union, Universal Postal Union, and various UN specialized programs.

Diplomatic relations span numerous countries including Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, the United States, Barbados, Cuba, Trinidad and Tobago, Japan, South Korea, China, and Taiwan. Relations with various nations have evolved through different periods of Grenada's history, including during the Cold War era when the country had diplomatic contacts with the Soviet Union and North Korea.

### Cultural Identity and National Symbols

Grenada's national identity draws from African, French, and British colonial influences, creating a distinctive Caribbean culture. The national anthem, "Hail Grenada," celebrates the nation's heritage and aspirations, while "God Save the King" serves as the royal anthem for ceremonial occasions.

The national motto, "Ever Conscious of God We Aspire, Build and Advance as One People," reflects the nation's values and collective spirit. This motto appears in various forms across languages and emphasizes spiritual consciousness and national unity.

The flag of Grenada, adopted on February 7, 1974, features symbols including a nutmeg pod recognizing the country's primary crop. The coat of arms incorporates additional symbolic elements representing Grenadian identity and values.

The official tourism slogan "Pure Grenada" emphasizes the island's natural beauty, authenticity, and clean environment. This marketing identity targets visitors seeking unspoiled Caribbean experiences away from more commercialized destinations.

### Infrastructure and Daily Life

The country operates on left-side roads, following the British colonial driving tradition common throughout the Eastern Caribbean. The electrical system uses 230-volt current at 50Hz frequency, with Type G (BS 1363) electrical plugs standard throughout the island.

Communication infrastructure includes the country calling code +1473 and the internet top-level domain .gd. Emergency services can be reached through 911 for general emergencies, with dedicated numbers (434, 724, 774) for emergency medical services.

The standard voltage and frequency align with British standards and differ from North American specifications, requiring visitors from the United States and Canada to use voltage converters and plug adapters for electronic devices.

### Social Indicators

Life expectancy in Grenada stands at approximately 75 years as of 2022, reflecting improvements in healthcare and living standards since independence. The Human Development Index value of 0.795 (2021) places Grenada in the "high human development" category, indicating decent standards of living, education, and health outcomes relative to national resources.

The population demonstrates natural increase patterns with birth rates around 15.616 per 1,000 population (2022) and death rates of approximately 7.942 per 1,000 population (2022). These figures indicate a growing population with adequate healthcare infrastructure.

Marriageable age is established at 21 years for all genders, reflecting legal standards for adulthood and contractual capacity. Educational attainment and literacy levels reflect regional standards with English as the primary language of instruction.

### Regional Context

Grenada occupies a specific position within Caribbean regional structures, both geographically and institutionally. Located in the Southern Caribbean, the island forms part of the Windward Islands that separate the Caribbean Sea from the Atlantic Ocean. This position has historically influenced the island's development as a maritime stop and its exposure to Atlantic weather systems.

The country shares maritime boundaries with neighbouring nations and participates in regional security arrangements through CARICOM and the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency. The Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court provides judicial services shared with other Eastern Caribbean states, reflecting regional integration in legal matters.

The European Union previously listed Grenada on the tax haven blacklist until January 23, 2018, when the country was removed following compliance with transparency and regulatory standards. This period highlighted international scrutiny of small island financial centres and Grenada's efforts to address regulatory concerns.

### Natural Features and Tourism Resources

Grenada's natural landscape offers diverse attractions for visitors and residents alike. Mount Saint Catherine rises as the highest point on the island, providing hiking opportunities and panoramic views of the surrounding terrain and sea. The volcanic origin of the island has created varied topography including mountains, valleys, and coastal features.

The Grand Étang Forest Reserve preserves areas of tropical rainforest, providing habitat for native wildlife and opportunities for eco-tourism. Trails through the reserve allow visitors to experience the island's natural environment and biodiversity.

Coastal features include beaches, coves, and the distinctive St. George's harbour, often cited as one of the most beautiful harbours in the Caribbean. Underwater attractions include coral reefs, dive sites, and the famous underwater sculpture park that combines art with marine conservation.

The surrounding marine environment supports diving, snorkelling, and whale watching activities. Sperm whales are present in the waters around Grenada year-round, offering unique wildlife viewing opportunities rare in Caribbean destinations.

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