Eric Gairy

Eric Gairy founded the Grenada United Labour Party (GULP), which became a major political force. The party advocated for workers' rights and social reform, drawing support from the rural and working classes.

Gairy became the first Premier of Grenada after leading the GULP to victory in the 1961 general election. He focused on economic development and social programs.

Gairy led Grenada to independence from the United Kingdom on February 7, 1974, becoming the first Prime Minister of the independent nation. The independence celebrations were marred by labor unrest and opposition protests.

Gairy's government faced widespread allegations of authoritarianism, corruption, and human rights abuses. His regime was accused of using the police and paramilitary groups to suppress political opposition.

Gairy gained international notoriety for his advocacy of UFO research. He proposed the establishment of a United Nations agency for UFO investigation, which was met with ridicule and dismissed by the UN.

Gairy was overthrown in a bloodless coup led by Maurice Bishop and the New Jewel Movement while he was out of the country. The coup ended his 28-year political dominance and led to the establishment of a socialist government.