Caribbean historian Fitzroy Augier, ‘Mr. CXC’, dies at 100 years old

University of the West Indies Professor Emeritus of History, Sir Fitzroy “Roy” Augier, a towering figure in Caribbean academia, passed away on January 27, 2025, at the age of 100.

Renowned as a scholar, educator, activist, World War II veteran, and administrator, Sir Roy’s life was one of unparalleled contribution to the development of Caribbean history and education.

Born in Castries, Saint Lucia, Sir Roy’s journey from an RAF gunner during World War II to one of the region’s most influential historians was extraordinary. After completing his service, he pursued an MA and PhD in History at St. Andrews University in Scotland, eventually settling in Jamaica, where he devoted more than 70 years to academia and regional development.

Joining the then University College of the West Indies (UCWI) in 1954 as a Research Fellow, Sir Roy became a cornerstone of the Department of History, later ascending to the role of Professor in 1989. His efforts, alongside colleagues like Douglas Hall and Rex Nettleford, were instrumental in establishing Caribbean History as a distinct discipline. His co-authored publications, such as The Making of the West Indies and the UNESCO-sponsored General History of the Caribbean, reshaped global perspectives on the region’s history.

Sir Roy’s contributions extended beyond academia. As Chairman of the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) from 1986 to 1996, he championed the acceptance of CXC and CAPE examinations, he led the way in gaining acceptance by regional stakeholders for the CAPE examinations as a replacement for the British A-levels, revolutionizing the region’s educational standards and earning him the affectionate title “Mr. CXC.”

During and after his years at The UWI, Roy taught, advised, or mentored several generations of Caribbean historians and academics. Verene Shepherd, Brian Moore, Swithin Wilmot, and Kathleen Monteith are some of the academics who benefitted from engaging with Roy and other greats such as Elsa Gouveia and Douglas Hall. Hilary Beckles, the current Vice-chancellor of the University of the West Indies, also benefitted from his counsel during his early years in the Department of History at the UWI Mona Campus.

In 2014, Sir Roy was one of a handful of Jamaicans who received the Order of Jamaica, the nation’s fourth-highest honor.

Jamaica’s Prime Minister, Andrew Holness, described Sir Roy as “a true giant in academia” and praised his pivotal role in shaping Caribbean education and culture.

“Professor Augier was beyond a historian; he was a visionary and a pioneer. His work as a researcher, educator, and Vice Chancellor of the University of the West Indies inspired countless scholars and leaders. His book, ‘The Making of the West Indies’, is a cornerstone of education in Jamaica and across the region. We honour his life’s work; his dedication to preserving our history, advancing knowledge, and building our nation. Professor Augier’s legacy will live on through the generations he has impacted,” Holness said in a tribute.

Sir Fitzroy Augier’s remarkable life exemplified a commitment to education, regional unity, and the advancement of Caribbean civilization. His passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy continues to inspire.