Jamaica

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Duperly (1833) Destruction of the Roehampton Estate January 1832

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Hakewill, A Picturesque Tour of the Island of Jamaica, Plate 04.jpg

Island country in the Caribbean Sea

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Jamaica is an island country situated in the Caribbean Sea. Spanning 10,991 square kilometers (4,244 sq mi) in area, it is the third-largest island of the Greater Antilles and the Caribbean (after Cuba and Hispaniola). Jamaica lies about 145 kilometers (90 mi) south of Cuba, and 191 kilometers (119 mi) west of Hispaniola (the island containing the countries of Haiti and the Dominican Republic).

History

The indigenous Taíno people inhabited Jamaica for centuries before the arrival of Christopher Columbus in 1494, who claimed the island for Spain. The Spanish colonists did not bring many settlers, and the island remained sparsely populated. In 1655, England (later Great Britain) conquered Jamaica and established a plantation economy based on sugarcane, worked by large numbers of African slaves. Jamaica gained full independence from the United Kingdom on 6 August 1962.

Geography

Jamaica is the third-largest island in the Caribbean. The island is characterized by its mountainous terrain, with the Blue Mountains being the highest range. The island's diverse ecosystems include rainforests, wetlands, and coral reefs.

Government and Politics

Jamaica is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system. The head of state is the monarch of Jamaica, currently Charles III, represented locally by the Governor-General. The head of government is the Prime Minister, currently Andrew Holness. The Parliament of Jamaica consists of the Senate and the House of Representatives.

Economy

Jamaica's economy is heavily reliant on services, particularly tourism and remittances. Other significant sectors include mining, agriculture, and manufacturing. The country is known for its production of bauxite and alumina, as well as sugar, rum, and coffee.

Demographics

Jamaica has a population of approximately 2.96 million people. The majority of Jamaicans are of African descent, with smaller communities of East Indians, Chinese, and Europeans. The official language is English, but Jamaican Patois is widely spoken.

Culture

Jamaica is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, particularly in music and sports. The island is the birthplace of reggae music, with internationally famous artists such as Bob Marley. Jamaica has also produced many world-class athletes, particularly in track and field.

Education

The education system in Jamaica is based on the British model and includes primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. The country has several universities, including the University of the West Indies and the University of Technology, Jamaica.

Health

Jamaica's healthcare system includes both public and private facilities. The Ministry of Health oversees the public healthcare system, which provides services to the majority of the population.

See also

• List of islands of Jamaica
• Jamaican cuisine
• Jamaican diaspora
• Jamaican English
• Jamaican Patois