Phyllis Coard Grenadian Communist Date of Birth: 02.11.1946 Country: Grenada

1. Early Life and Education
2. Political activism and Marriage to Bernard Coard
3. Member of the Government
4. "Lady Macbeth" of the Revolution
5. Bishop's Overthrow and Execution
6. Trial and Imprisonment
7. Later Life
8. Death and Legacy

Early Life and Education

Phyllis Coard was born in Jamaica to a small-time entrepreneur in the coffee industry. She trained as an accountant and became passionate about leftist ideas, particularly the "liberation of Caribbean women."

Political activism and Marriage to Bernard Coard

Coard's political views evolved towards communism. In Grenada, she married Bernard Coard, a close associate of Maurice Bishop. Together, they joined the New Jewel Movement (NJM). Phyllis Coard was considered a key party activist and ideologist.

Member of the Government

After the NJM came to power in 1979, Coard held prominent positions in Grenada's political leadership. She was a member of the People's Revolutionary Government and oversaw women's affairs and social programs. Coard adhered to an orthodox communist orientation and advocated radical policies.

"Lady Macbeth" of the Revolution

Coard was deeply involved in behind-the-scenes conflicts and intrigues within the NJM. She gained a reputation as the "Lady Macbeth" of the movement, like the character in Shakespeare's play. She plotted against Minister of Education Jacqueline Creft, Bishop's mistress.

Bishop's Overthrow and Execution

In October 1983, Bishop was overthrown and arrested. Bernard Coard effectively became the leader of the government. Bishop's supporters freed him and seized the army headquarters. However, the new authorities responded with force and killed Bishop, Creft, and their allies.

Trial and Imprisonment

Phyllis Coard was not directly involved in the killings but was one of the leading conspirators. She was tried as part of the "Grenada 17." She denied guilt and attacked the judge. Coard and her husband were sentenced to death, later commuted to life imprisonment.

Later Life

In 2000, Coard was released from prison due to ill health and moved to Jamaica. In 2009, she was reunited with Bernard Coard. They lived a private life, avoiding political activism but interacting with the press occasionally. Coard authored a memoir, "Unchained: A Caribbean Woman's Journey."

Death and Legacy

Phyllis Coard passed away in 2019 at the age of 76. Her role in Grenada's revolution remains controversial, with some condemning her as a ruthless conspirator and others praising her commitment to social change.