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The interplay of a large number of communities has resulted in a cultural mix that is uniquely Trinbagonian. The cultural brew is now topped off with a heavy dose of
American influence
The Culture of Trinidad and Tobago reflects the influence of African, Indian, French, Amerindian, Chinese, British, Spanish, Portuguese, Venezuelan, Caribbean, and American culture. Since the histories of Trinidad and Tobago are different, there are differences in the cultural influences which have shaped each island. Despite their small sizes, there are also regional differences within each island.
Trinidad and Tobago has strong links to both the United Kingdom and the United States. Historical membership in the British Empire left a major influence on the country, including the dominance of the English language and the popularity of the two top sports in the country, football and cricket. The dominance of American television programming and Hollywood movies, together with the presence of a large emigrant population in the United States has resulted in a profound American influence on the culture.
The most influential single factor on the culture of Trinidad and Tobago is Carnival. Carnival was brought to Trinidad by French settlers in the latter part of the eighteenth century. Originally the celebration was confined to the elite, but it gradually spread to the common folk.. The first few hours of Carnival Monday morning, from about 4 a.m. until sunrise, was known as J’ouvert (a contraction of jour
ouvert).
Costumed and masked by the darkness, J’ouvert allowed the wealthy to mix with the rest in relative anonymity. Monday night (night ‘mas) had a similar, but lesser function.
Calypso developed together with Carnival. The chantuelle, who spoke for the band, evolved into the calypsonian (and other characters, such as the Midnight Robber). The music, which drew upon African and French influences, became the voice of the people. It allowed the masses to challenge the doings of the unelected Governor and Legislative Council, and the elected town councils of Port of Spain and San Fernando. As English replaced patois (Creole French) as the dominant language, calypso migrated into English, and in so doing it attracted more attention from the Government. Calypso continued to play an important role in political expression, and also served to document the history of Trinidad and Tobago.
Pichakaree is an Indo-Trinidadian musical form which originated in Trinidad and Tobago. Pichakaree songs are generally social commentary, and are sung using a mixture of Hindi, English and Bhojpuri words. The musical form was devised by RaviJi, spiritual leader of the Hindu Prachar Kendra, as an Indo-Trinidadian counterpoint to calypso which often takes a strongly anti-Indian tone. Pichakaree competitions are an integral part of Phagwa celebrations hosted by the Hindu Prachar Kendra.
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