Postcolonial Philately as Memory and History

Abstract

This chapter traces the creation and transformation of postcolonial Trinidad and Tobago and the formation of its national identity through an examination of postage stamps issued over the period. Although stamps have the same informational value as other materials they are often overlooked as archival documentation. However, they have archival value as they are created for official purposes and contain a wealth of historical and social information. Notwithstanding their primary roles as a conduit of business transactions, they play an important role in the preservation of collective memory as they record significant commemorative and cultural events or honour the achievements of outstanding personalities. When systematically examined over the years, they present a story of a nation’s history and development that may not be captured in any other format. Since stamps also chart the trajectory of a colonial and postcolonial history, they are particularly relevant as to the Caribbean. By transmitting through their imagery what the nation and its people accomplished and valued, they provide messages for future generations They thus facilitate the development of Trinidad and Tobago’s identity – which is constantly evolving – from a colonial to an Independent Twin Island Republic.