Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) Caribbean History Practice Exam 2025 – Complete All-in-One Guide for Exam Success!

Sugar played a pivotal role in shaping the economy of the Caribbean during the colonial period. The cultivation of sugarcane became the dominant agricultural activity in the region, leading to the establishment of large plantations that were heavily reliant on the labor of enslaved Africans. This industry not only transformed the agricultural landscape but also had profound social and economic impacts, causing a significant influx of wealth into the colonies from both local production and exportation to Europe.

The demand for sugar grew dramatically in Europe, making it a highly sought-after commodity. As a result, it fostered a trade system that connected the Caribbean to Europe and North America, contributing to the triangular trade route. This involved shipping sugar to Europe, while rum (a byproduct of sugar) would be traded for slaves in Africa, thus entrenching a cycle of economic dependency on sugar cultivation.

While coffee, rice, and bananas were also grown in the Caribbean, none had the same level of economic influence or global significance during the colonial era as sugar did. Coffee and bananas emerged as important crops later, and rice was primarily cultivated in specific areas with less overall impact compared to the sugar industry. Thus, the prominence and profitability of sugar made it the cornerstone of the colonial Caribbean economy.