A half century ago, the Union Jack was lowered at Nassau’s Clifford Park, replaced by the Aquamarine, Gold and Black flag, signaling the birth of a new nation: the Commonwealth of The Bahamas.
And this week, The Bahamas triumphantly celebrated the 50th anniversary of its independence in jubilant fashion.
The country hoisted its flag in the very same Clifford Park at midnight, joined by golden confetti, cannon fire and explosive fireworks.
It was the culmination of months of preparation and what have already been weeks of celebration of the momentous occasion.
Thousands braved 100-degree heat indices for what was an eight-hour celebration in Nassau, part of a countrywide Bahamas 50 movement.
“We have not traveled long, we have much further to go. But we know where we are going, and with a united people and a gracious God, we will get there,” said President of the Bahamas Christian Council Apostle Delton Fernander, echoing the worlds of Bahamian Founding Father Sir Lynden Pindling.
The celebration also included a video message from King Charles II, who was the Prince of Wales when he himself represented Queen Elizabeth at the July 10, 1973 ceremony.