More Jamaican Culture & History
Jamaica was a land of unrest and constant rebellions due to large numbers of slaves and small numbers of slave owners. A visit to the Cockpit Country will reveal the world of Maroons, or runaway slaves. These Maroons hid in and fought from this craggy terrain, with limestone hilltops in the shape of hundreds of hay stacks hidden by jungle foliage. In this forbidden and treacherous setting the Maroons stunned the British soldiers, and over the course of two wars won the grudging admiration of the British army, as well as a peace treaty which was signed recognizing their freedom and giving them a state within Jamaica. You can visit this remarkable site at the most famous Maroon Community in the township of Accompong in the parish of St. Elizabeth or go to the northern most Maroon town at Clark's Town and take the scenic drive to Albert Town, which is a bird watchers paradise and home to the highest density of plant life on the island
At one time Britain manned over 20 forts on the island, built to protect against pirate raids and foreign invasion. Many forts can be visited in the Kingston-Port Royal area, including the best-preserved fort on the island, Fort Charles. Built in 1655, Fort Charles survived the great earthquake of 1692 that killed thousands of people and destroyed almost every building in Port Royal. Forts are also easy to find in Ocho Rios and St. Ann's Bay.
The Emancipation Act of 1834 brought liberation to over 300,000 slaves. Today Jamaica is a proud and independent nation, obtaining its freedom from England in 1962.
You can see why Jamaica's national motto "Out of many, one people" is so appropriate. Though the vast majority of people are of African descent, you will also find Jamaicans of European, Indian, Middle Eastern and Asian descent, all cultures that have added to the richness and vibrancy of the Jamaican people
A vacation to Jamaica can mean much more than just a walk on the beach outside your hotel room. It can encompass such diverse activities as touring a plantation Great House, ancient caves where Arawaks once lived, remnants of Colonial forts and buildings, and the historic bay Columbus himself was marooned on for a year.
As you sway to the rhythm of a reggae tune, or explore the abundant historical sites Jamaica has to offer, don't forget all the influences that lent to its creation. Embrace Jamaica and discover all she has to offer!
