What portion of the population of Cayman was recorded as free in 1771?

In 1771, it was recorded that 50% of the population of the Cayman Islands was classified as free. This historical context is significant as it reflects the social and economic dynamics of the time, particularly related to slavery and the ownership of enslaved people in the Caribbean. The population included both free individuals and enslaved people, but the fact that half of it was free indicates a relatively high proportion of freedom compared to many other regions during that era, where enslaved populations were often predominant.

The presence of a significant free population could point to factors such as the unique settlement patterns of the Cayman Islands, which included the early establishment of agriculture and fishing patterns that allowed for the emergence of a class of free people. This contrasts with historical trends seen in other Caribbean islands, where slavery was more prevalent and free populations were much lower. Thus, this specific demographic information serves as a key point in understanding the social history of the Cayman Islands during the 18th century.