1967: Trinidad and Tobago has been an independent country since 1962, though it is administered by Great Britain.

Today: Trinidad and Tobago has been an independent republic within the British Commonwealth for over twenty years.

1967: Trinidad's economy is unstable, with high unemployment, especially among the young. It soon leads to unrest, strikes, and protests on the island.

Today: Though Trinidad's economy is again unstable, unemployment and inflation are slightly lower and prone to fluctuation. There is more hope, however, because the oil boom of the 1970s proved that a solid economy was possible.

1967: The PNM (People's National Movement) is firmly in power in Trinidad, and though accused of corruption, there are few challengers.

Today: Corruption scandals and challenges by the NAR (National Alliance for Reconstruction), NDP (National Development Party), and Movement for Unity and Progress have limited the power of the PNM in national politics.

1967: The...