Sir Eric Matthew Gairy

Eric Matthew Gairy, a charismatic and controversial figure, was born in the parish of St. Andrew’s on 18th February 1922. He received his early education at St. Mary’s RC School in La Fillette and St. Andrew’s RC School in Grenville. His Government was overthrown by the New Jewel Movement (NJM) in 1979. However, history will remember him as a politician of compelling oratorical skills and a man of immense charm. He participated in some significant events leading to the establishment of important regional organisations. Mr. Gairy was Grenada’s representative at the historic Federation Conference in 1957.

A “disciple” of his famous countryman, Tubal Uriah Butler, Gairy lived in Trinidad and Tobago for a number of years, working at the American Naval Base at Chaguaramas during World War II and attending Butler’s meetings in the post-war days.

His popularity grew as he took upon himself the task of defender of the Grenada farm workers which endeared him to Grenadians. His role of benefactor of the agricultural workers met resistance from estate owners resulting in a series of protests by the workers. Popularly known as “Uncle”, by 1951 he had become a working class hero when he successfully organised an island-wide strike. This led to his winning a seat (with Adult Franchise for the first time) in the General Election as Leader of the Grenada United Labour Party (GULP) which he also founded.