Jamaica draws influences from every part of the world and is culturally rich. Reggae music is a huge part of this and has been a major influence on many popular groups from all over the world.
Visiting this Caribbean island is an ideal opportunity to gain knowledge about its heritage and culture, while enjoying a wide array of adventures. From waterfalls to beaches and many more It has something for all!
Histories
The history of Jamaica has been shaped through genocide committed against the native peoples , and by a long time in slavery. The island also experience the interaction between Europe, Africa, and Asia. The present-day Jamaican island is one of strong diversity and contrasts.
The first people of Jamaica were the Taino Indians, migrated to the island in the year 600CE. They are known for their culture of fishing, the cultivation of maize (maize) as well as the cultivation of cassava.
They were wiped out by the Spanish conquest in 1494. The Arawak word to describe the island Xaymaca refers to “Land with water and wood”.
For 150 years Jamaica existed under Spanish control for over 150 years. It functioned as the centre for slave transport and sugar plantation. European diseases devastated the Arawak populace Many died from hunger or suicide.
Musik
Jamaica is home to a diverse range of musical styles, some that are part of Jamaica’s unique history. This includes reggae and mento and dancehall, as well as obscure genres such as folk music.
Although it is a tiny island, Jamaica is many musical styles and a diverse background that is heavily influenced by its diverse population. Jamaica has a majority of the West African population, with various minorities such as East Indians and Chinese.
The new cultural norms, music as well as traditions emerged when the island was colonized by Spain followed by to England. Many of these traditions are being used today, especially for folk music.
Sound systems were a major change in Jamaica’s music culture. They played American R&B in addition to Jamaican music. The new music genre, Ska, emerged. The ska music style was born to reflect the changes in society taking place in Jamaica in the period. It became a dominant force on the Jamaican musical scene.
Food
Jamaica’s cuisine has a vast range of influences from across the world. The Jamaican cuisine is affected by the African slave trade, Indian indentured workers and British Colonial Administration.
Jerk is among the most popular dishes. It is cooked with a mix of allspice, cloves, as well as cinnamon. It is then smoked on pimentowood. This spicy, mouthwatering delight is sure to make your taste buds sing.
Ackee and saltfish are another common food choice. The soft yellow seed pods from ackee cherries (a similarity to the lychee fruit) originated by West Africa and are often prepared with salted cod as a way to spice up this popular national dish.
Jamaican mainstays of food include peas, rice and plantains that are fried. The fruits and vegetables make appearances.
People
People from Jamaica are distinct and enjoy a a strong bond with their cultural heritage. The Jamaican culture Jamaica is rich and varied and encompasses dance types, cuisine, language traditional, folklore, customs, and traditions.
The developed culture was the consequence of the interactions with Africa as well as Europe. European influences have been seen in religion, medicine and even public institutions. However, African continuity has been visible in Jamaican Creole food cultural, language, and even drumming.
Some Jamaican tradition are dying although a few traditions are alive. The “Nine Nights’” wake is one of them an annual gathering that lasts for nine days with family and friends together to honor a beloved person who passed away. There is also a ‘Kumina’ an event that involves dance and spirit possession. It is an opportunity to celebrate and honoring the dead.
