I believe in an article I once wrote, I spoke about the origins of carnival. I spoke about it was a tradition that was linked to religion. Today, I wish to further add to the history of carnival in Trinidad and Tobago.
Trinidad and Tobago changed hands over the centuries between the French, Spanish and British. During the occupation of the Spanish, many French settlers from islands such as St. Lucia, and Martinique came to Trinidad. Around this time slavery was still in effect.
Therefore, you had both European and African cultures present in the same geographical location.
Carnival is a mixture of these two cultures. The French use to wear exuberant clothes, face paint, or even sometimes wear artifacts that would mimic and make fun of the enslaved peoples.
Despite this the Africans, still under slavery, in their unique communities mimicked there European owners. However, as slavery was abolished it moved from a private setting to a public one. As a result of this the French stopped playing it as it was degrading to them.
Today, we see pieces of African culture in Carnival; the JAB JAB, the Midnight robber, blue devils, and the “Mokojumbie” amongst other characters. Contemporary carnival is different with regard to presentation and purpose.
We celebrate it differently now compared to then. It is more globalized and modernized, but it still consists of some elements of the old ways, in fact these old ways are called “Old Mas”.
Many elements of music and competition are now added into the mix of carnival today. It is a cycle a ritual that many during the year prepare for, whether they are from local or abroad.
I particularly enjoy the elements of the steel band, “riddim sections”, the display of fluorescence colors on Trinidadians’ bodies while “chipping” down the street on Carnival Monday and Tuesday, to be judged on the “Stage”.
Carnival has evolved from a “reaction” to colonial slave masters, to an “action” of personal happiness, enjoyment on oneself, a celebration of freedom and bliss, and a unique combination of differences and collectiveness making Caribbean news.
