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Jamaican History

  • Jan 1, 1494

    Explored by Columbus

    Explored by Columbus
    Christopher Columbus explored the island while it was inhabited by Arawak Indians. He named it St. Iago.
  • British Possession

    British Possession
    In 1655 Britain took control of Jamaica.
  • Slaves Freed

    Slaves Freed
    In 1807, the slave trade was abolished for the Jamaicans. Then, 26 years later, all slaves were free.
  • Uprising

    Uprising
    The living conditions on the island were very poor, so the the residents of the island led a revolt.
  • Crown Colony

    Crown Colony
    Jamaica becomes a crown colony after their uprising.
  • Internal Automany

    Internal Automany
    On May 5, 1953, Jamaica gained internal autonomy.
  • West Indies Federation

    West Indies Federation
    Jamaica became the leaders of the West Indies Federation.
  • First Prime Minister

    First Prime Minister
    Alexander Bustamante became the first Prime Minister of Jamaica in 1962
  • Independence Gained

    Independence Gained
    Jamaica became independent on Aug. 6, 1962.
  • Andrew Holness

    Andrew Holness
    The current Prime Minister of Jamaica, Andrew Holness, was elected.
  • Usain Bolt

    Usain Bolt
    Bolt, who is from Jamaica, won 3 gold medals at the Rio 2016 Summer Olympics, bringing his total to 9 gold medals.