Jamaica
The island - discovered by Christopher COLUMBUS in 1494 - was settled by the Spanish early in the 16th century. The native Taino Indians, who had inhabited Jamaica for centuries, were gradually exterminated, replaced by African slaves. England seized the island in 1655 and a plantation economy - based on sugar, cocoa, and coffee - was established. The abolition of slavery in 1834 freed a quarter million slaves, many of whom became small farmers. Jamaica gradually obtained increasing independence from Britain, and in 1958 it joined other British Caribbean colonies in forming the Federation of the West Indies. Jamaica gained full independence when it withdrew from the Federation in 1962. Deteriorating economic conditions during the 1970s led to recurrent violence as rival gangs affiliated with the major political parties evolved into powerful organized crime networks involved in international drug smuggling and money laundering. The cycle of violence, drugs, and poverty has served to impoverish large sectors of the populace. Nonetheless, many rural and resort areas remain relatively safe and contribute substantially to the economy.
Languages & Population
Approximate Population: 2,780,132 (July 2007 est.)
Nationality (Noun): Jamaican(s)
Nationality (Adjective): Jamaican
Official Language(s): English
Major Languages Spoken: English
Country Facts
Country Name (long form): none
Country Name (short form): Jamaica
Country Name (local long form): none
Country Name (local short form): none
Name of Capital: Kingston
UTC Time Difference (from capital): UTC-5 (same time as Washington, DC during Standard Time)
Countries Near by, and Bordering Jamaica: Cayman Islands, Cuba, Haiti
Land Area: 10831 sq km
Water Area: 160 sq km
Comparative Area: slightly smaller than Connecticut
Coastline: 1,022 km
National Holiday: Independence Day, 6 August (1962)
International Phone Code: -875
Currency Code: Jamaican dollar (JMD)
Internet Country Code: .jm
US Embassy Location: 142 Old Hope Road, Kingston 6
US Embassy Mailing Address: P.O. Box 541, Kingston 5
Services Related to Jamaica
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