THE COMMONWEALTH OF THE BAHAMAS

"An English-speaking Country – Culture, Habits, Beliefs, Clothing,

Food and Hobbies"

Name: Sandra Mainsel Cumba Tati

Student Number: 231582

Course: OGE

Classroom: B108

Grade: 2nd Year

Date: May 26, 2025

 BACK COVER
Institution: [Insert Your School's Name Here]

Teacher: [Insert Teacher's Name Here]

Subject: English

Academic Year: 2025

 INDEX
1. Introduction

2. Geographical and Historical Overview

3. Culture of the Bahamas

4. Habits and Daily Life

5. Religious Beliefs and Traditions

6. Clothing and Fashion

7. Bahamas Cuisine

8. Hobbies and Leisure Activities

9. Conclusion

10. Bibliographic References

 1. INTRODUCTION
The Bahamas is a beautiful island nation located in the Atlantic Ocean, comprising
over 700 islands and cays. It is renowned for its scenic beauty, turquoise waters,
and friendly people. As a member of the British Commonwealth, English is the
official language, making it an ideal subject for this research.

This project seeks to explore the key aspects of Bahamian life, including its
geography, history, culture, daily habits, religious beliefs, traditional clothing,
cuisine, and common hobbies. Each of these themes will be developed extensively to
provide a holistic understanding of life in the Bahamas.

Through this in-depth study, we aim to understand how the English language
shapes cultural and societal values in the Bahamas. The reader will also appreciate
the uniqueness and richness of Bahamian identity, which blends African, European,
and Caribbean influences into a vibrant national character.
 2. GEOGRAPHICAL AND HISTORICAL OVERVIEW
The Bahamas is an archipelago consisting of approximately 700 islands and over
2,000 cays. Located southeast of Florida and northeast of Cuba, the islands stretch
across more than 100,000 square miles of ocean. Nassau, the capital, is situated on
New Providence Island and serves as the political and economic hub of the country.

Historically, the Bahamas was first inhabited by the Lucayan people before the
arrival of Christopher Columbus in 1492. The islands later became a British colony,
and slavery played a significant role in shaping the population and economy. The
Bahamas gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1973 but remains part
of the Commonwealth, recognizing the British monarch as head of state.

Today, the Bahamas is a democratic nation with a stable government and a strong
tourism-based economy. Its geographical position makes it a crucial location for
maritime activity, and its historical experiences contribute to a rich cultural heritage
that is evident in every aspect of Bahamian life.
 3. CULTURE OF THE BAHAMAS
Bahamian culture is a vibrant blend of African, British, and Caribbean influences.
This is evident in music, dance, language, art, and celebrations. The national identity
is strongly tied to a sense of community, faith, and resilience, which stems from the
country's colonial and post-slavery history.

One of the most important cultural events in the Bahamas is Junkanoo, a street
parade with music, dance, and colorful costumes held on Boxing Day and New Year's
Day. It is a time of joy, artistic expression, and national pride. Bahamian music,
including genres like rake-and-scrape and Goombay, also reflects African rhythms
and storytelling traditions.

The people of the Bahamas value hospitality, family ties, and religious faith. Cultural
pride is taught from a young age, and traditional customs are passed down through
generations. From folk tales to national symbols, Bahamian culture is deeply rooted
in both heritage and the everyday lives of its people.
 4. HABITS AND DAILY LIFE
Life in the Bahamas tends to be relaxed and community-oriented. Bahamians
generally start their days early, and family is central to daily routines. Mealtime is
especially important, often seen as an opportunity for family bonding and passing
on cultural traditions.

Respect for elders, friendliness, and politeness are deeply ingrained in social
behavior. People often greet each other with a smile and a warm ‘Good morning’ or
‘Good day’. Sunday is typically reserved for church and family activities, as religion
plays a central role in the social fabric.

Many Bahamians work in tourism, fishing, and public service, and they often enjoy
socializing at local markets, beaches, or cultural events after work. Despite modern
influences, traditional values continue to shape daily life and maintain a strong
sense of national identity.
 5. RELIGIOUS BELIEFS AND TRADITIONS
The Bahamas is a predominantly Christian country, with the majority of the
population belonging to Protestant denominations such as Baptist, Anglican, and
Methodist. Religion is a fundamental part of daily life and greatly influences societal
values, moral standards, and education.

Church services are vibrant and well-attended, especially on Sundays. In addition to

weekly worship, Bahamians also participate in prayer meetings, gospel festivals,
and religious holidays such as Easter and Christmas. Churches also serve as
community centers, providing social support and education.

Religious teachings influence behavior, family structure, and even politics in the
Bahamas. While Christianity is dominant, the country promotes religious freedom,
and there are small communities of Catholics, Muslims, and other faiths. Spirituality
is often tied to a sense of purpose, hope, and communal identity.
 6. CLOTHING AND FASHION
Bahamian clothing reflects the warm climate and vibrant culture of the islands. In
daily life, people often wear light and colorful clothing made of breathable fabrics
such as cotton and linen. Men might wear short-sleeved shirts and trousers, while
women typically wear dresses or skirts.

For formal occasions or church services, attire is more conservative and elegant.
Women wear hats and tailored dresses, while men don suits or dress shirts.
Traditional and cultural garments are often worn during festivals and national
celebrations.

In Junkanoo parades, costumes are extravagant and handmade using crepe paper,
feathers, beads, and sequins. These outfits represent characters, animals, or cultural
themes and are essential to the festive expression of Bahamian identity. Fashion in
the Bahamas blends comfort, creativity, and cultural pride.
 7. BAHAMAS CUISINE
Bahamian cuisine is a rich fusion of African, Caribbean, and European influences.
Seafood is a staple, especially conch (a large sea snail), which is used in many dishes
such as conch salad, cracked conch, and conch fritters. Fish, lobster, and crab are
also commonly eaten.

Typical side dishes include peas and rice, baked macaroni and cheese, fried
plantains, and coleslaw. Breakfasts often feature grits and steamed fish, while
desserts include guava duff, coconut tart, and pineapple cake. Bahamians enjoy bold
flavors, using spices like thyme, allspice, and hot pepper.

Food is a major part of social gatherings and celebrations. Cooking traditions are
passed down through generations, and meals are seen as expressions of love and
heritage. Bahamian cuisine reflects the islands’ history and the people's close
relationship with the sea and the land.
 8. HOBBIES AND LEISURE ACTIVITIES
Bahamians enjoy a wide range of hobbies that reflect their tropical environment and
cultural heritage. Popular activities include swimming, fishing, boating, and beach
volleyball. Water sports such as snorkeling and scuba diving are also common due
to the country’s extensive coral reefs.

Music and dance are favorite pastimes, with many people participating in local
bands, dance groups, or community performances. Crafting is another popular
hobby, especially making straw baskets, jewelry, and wood carvings, which are
often sold in local markets.

Family outings, church activities, and storytelling are part of traditional leisure.
Sports such as basketball, track and field, and baseball are also enjoyed, especially
by the youth. Bahamian hobbies emphasize fun, creativity, and community
engagement, offering balance and joy in everyday life.
 9. CONCLUSION
The Bahamas stands as a shining example of a nation where English serves as a
unifying force for a diverse and vibrant culture. Through its geography, history,
customs, and modern way of life, we see a country that values tradition while
embracing progress.

This research has shown that Bahamian life is rich in meaning and deeply connected
to the English language, not only as a means of communication but also as a vehicle
for preserving cultural identity. From Junkanoo to church services, from conch salad
to family values, every aspect of Bahamian life reflects a unique blend of influences.

Understanding the Bahamas helps us appreciate the beauty of multiculturalism and

the role language plays in shaping societies. It is a country where warmth, color, and
culture meet, offering the world a glimpse into the enduring spirit of island life.
 10. BIBLIOGRAPHIC REFERENCES
- Bahamas.com. Official Tourism Website of The Bahamas.

- Britannica.com. ‘Bahamas’ entry in the Encyclopaedia Britannica.

- Lonelyplanet.com. Travel Guide to the Bahamas.

- The Nassau Guardian. Local Bahamian news and cultural features.

- The World Factbook – CIA. ‘Bahamas’ section.