A founder-member of the Democratic Labour Party, Barrow attained power as Premier in 1961 and held that position until 1966. He then took the island into Independence from Britain after his party won elections and he became the islands' first Prime Minister.

Barrow is credited with many accomplishments. Some include: democratisation of the educational process and expanded free education to all levels of the population; the introduction of a National Insurance and Social Security scheme; improved health services; accelerated industrial development; and considerable expansion of the tourist industry. He took Barbados into Independence in November, 1966.

Having been selected by the people to lead Barbados into Independence in 1966, Barrow brought to an end the long process of decolonisation. His record of achievement led to his Party's landslide victory in the September, 1971 General Elections, capturing 18 of the 24 seats in the House of Assembly. After 15 years in power, defeated in the General Elections of 1976 they spent the next 10 years in Opposition. In 1986, at the age of 66 years, he again led his party to power, winning the General Elections by the largest ever margin of seats in Barbados' history 24-3.

Errol Barrow died on June 1, 1987 while in office. He left an impressive record: First Prime Minister 1966-1976; "Father of Independence", supporter of the UWI and regional unity; designer of a modern system of public budgeting; architect of the University of the West Indies Campus at Cave Hill, Barbados; creator of the Barbados Community College; co-founder of the Caribbean Free Trade Association (CARIFTA); inspiration for lowering the age of majority from 21 to 18 and co-founder of CARICOM. (It was said of him that "He found Barbados a collection of villages, and transformed it into a proud nation.")

Barbadians observe the birthday of Errol Walton Barrow on January 21 as a national holiday.