Jamaican History

This brief summary of Jamaican history is for those who like to understand a bit about the history and culture of the destinations they visit during their vacations. 

Jamaica's Pre-Columbian Period, Before 1494:

Before Columbus discovered Jamaica in 1494, the island was inhabited by the Arawaks, whose indigenous culture included hunting and fishing.  Their villages were small, simple little communities. 

The arrival of the Spanish had a drastic impact and changed everything on Jamaica.  Within 80 years, the Arakwak communities completely vanished.  Today, we might not even realize Arawaks lived there, but for the small number of Arawak artifacts housed in a White Mari museum.

Once the Spanish learned Jamaica is barren of gold, they used the island's resources to support their efforts to conquer Mexico.  The Spanish settlement, even including its slave population, was never large.  Nonetheless, several colonial-era buildings remain in what is now called Spanish Town, and this period of Jamaican history is sometimes studied.

When the British arrived in 1655 to capture Jamaica, the Spanish mounted only a meager defense because they considered the island to be of such little significance. 

In an odd reprise of the way Arawak culture was wiped out by the arrival of the Spanish, once the British arrived, hardly any traces of Spanish culture remained except for a few colonial administration buildings.

The British Slave Period, from 1655 to 1838:

The British imported slaves from Africa to work Jamaica's extensive sugar plantations.  These plantations made the British a lot of money, but their profits were short-lived. 

By the end of the 18th century, higher production costs made sugar a less profitable agricultural commodity and it lost its power in the Jamaican economy.  In 1838, the slaves were freed and given the right to earn wages for their work on the plantations.

Reverend Sam Sharpe is celebrated in Jamaica history for his role in what is known as the Christmas slave rebellion of 1831-1832, just a few short years before Jamaica's slaves were emancipated.

The Birth of Jamaican Political Freedom, from 1962-1972:

Jamaica was rejected when it applied to become a member of the Federation of the West Indies, but it gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1962. 

By the end of the 1960s, Jamaica's economy finally began to take a turn for the better.  Manufacturing and mining were established, and the Jamaican tourist industry began to explode.

The island is full of freedom and natural beauty, and it not only expresses its rich cultural traditions, but is also populated by a kind people who are making their place not just on Jamaica, but within the world community.

Everyone should learn at least a little about Jamaica's rich history.  Doing so will help you understand the Jamaican culture and ensure that you better appreciate the island's many wonders.

For More In-Depth, You May Like To Visit 'History of Jamaica'

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