Antigua Has a Peak Named After President Obama

Mount Obama is the nickname given to the island's tallest mountain. It was previously known as Boggy Peak, but the island changed its name in 2009 to commemorate Obama's historic election victory. It is known as Antigua's "Everest," rising 1,319 feet (402 metres) over the island's southern tip. It's also a scenic location, topped by lush trees, and a favorite hiking destination. The entire region is a national park, with new paths being built along the northern side of Christian Valley all the time. It also acts as a television and telecommunications transmission facility.

The hills were used for sugarcane plantations during the colonial era. The old name, Boogy Peak, stemmed from slave owners' myths about the Boogie Man, who took spirits and dwelt on the highlands. They would tell them the narrative in order to discourage slaves from fleeing. African slaves who escaped would hide out in the neighboring hills, establishing their own villages.