CULTURE

Jamaica

Jamaica is a rich and vibrant country, which continually aspires to move forward as a nation. The largest of the Caribbean Island, it is known for its lovely people and I term them as Jewels as every shade of skin resides in Jamaica and lives in harmony, hence their motto “Out of Many, One People”.

The population of Jamaica up to July 2020 stands at 2,961,167 and these number of people is spread over 14 beautiful parishes, namely, St Andrew, Kingston, Westmoreland, Manchester, St Catherine, Clarendon, St Thomas, St Mary, Trelawny, Hanover, St James, St Anns, Portland and St Elizabeth.

Tourists flocks to Jamaica throughout the year to take in its beautiful heritage, sun, sea, sand and waterfalls …..and reggae music but most of all to delight themselves with the wonderful and tasty cuisines the country has to offer as you travel this beautiful island.

Here are 2 great links to learn more about Jamaica and its full rich culture:

“The sun shineth, the land is green and the people are strong and creative” is the symbolism of the colours of the flag. Black depicts the strength and creativity of the people; Gold, the natural beauty of the sunlight and the wealth of the country; and Green signifies hope and agricultural resources.”

FACTS ABOUT Jamaica

Can You Guess?

The Jamaican National Flower

Can You Guess?

The Lignum Vitae

"Lignum vitae" is Latin for "wood of life".

the Jamaican National Fruit

What is it?

Ackee

Ackee is a very delicious fruit and when boiled and cooked with seasoning and salt fish or salt pork, it is considered one of Jamaica’s greatest delicacies….hence Ackee & Saltfish known as our National Dish.

The Jamaican National Bird

Any Idea?

The Doctor Bird

The doctor bird or swallow tail humming bird (Trochilus Polytmus), is one of the most outstanding of the 320 species of hummingbirds. It lives only in Jamaica

Who is The Most Iconic Music Figure of Jamaica?

Easy Peasy...

Bob Marley

He is one of the pioneers of reggae. He had the skills to fuse reggae, ska, and rocksteady and have you rocking. His lyrics were of natural life. He left us too soon, dying at the early age of 36 but his voice cannot be hidden as his voice was so distinctive. His music crossed race age and gender and one of his iconic songs “One Love” always sends cheer to your heart and would always bring everyone to the dance floor as it’s a message to the world.

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Jamaica Independence

When was it?

1962

Ever since Jamaica gained its Independence in 1962, every year we look forward to enjoying a time of festivities, taking to the streets in carnival costumes, and the jonkanoos would come out among dancing and floats. Every year artists would compete to do a song celebrating Jamaica and the winner would be deemed the Festival song winner of that year. One such song which proved very popular was called “I’m A Born Jamaican” song by the Astronauts. The lyrics capture the essence of Jamaicans at heart.

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What Is The Jamaican Dialect

I Bet You Didn't Know They Have One...

Patois

Jamaican has a dialect called patois (pronounced patwah). Our King and Queen of cultural stories was Louise Bennett and Ranny Williams (known as Mas Ran). They were great story tellers which intrigued both children and adults alike. They were many cultural performances by infamous singers who would sing songs in the Jamaican dialect called “Folks songs”…One such famous songs was “Carry mi Ackee go a Linstead Market” Translation…Carry my ackee to Linstead Market. Another great one was called “Evenin Time”. Jamaicans love food and know how to take the simplest of ingredients and make very interesting dishes…..the songs

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HEART OF THE JAMAICANS

Jamaicans are a resilient set of people and is stated in the National Pledge:

“Before God and all mankind, I pledge the love and loyalty of my heart, the wisdom and courage of my mind, the strength and vigour of my body in the service of my fellow citizens; I promise to stand up for Justice, Brotherhood and Peace, to work diligently and creatively, to think generously and honestly, so that Jamaica may, under God, increase in beauty, fellowship and prosperity, and play her part in advancing the welfare of the whole human race.”

Jamaica is also known for its churches and its people enjoys the tradition of exercising their faith in attending church. A strong people of faith in overcoming trials and hardships, its National Anthem speaks the heart of the people.

The Jamaican National Anthem

Eternal Father bless our land,
Guard us with Thy Mighty Hand,
Keep us free from evil powers,
Be our light through countless hours.
To our Leaders, Great Defender,
Grant true wisdom from above.
Justice, Truth be ours forever,
Jamaica, Land we love.

Jamaica, Jamaica, Jamaica land we love.

Teach us true respect for all,
Stir response to duty’s call, strengthen us the weak to cherish,
Give us vision lest we perish.
Knowledge send us Heavenly Father,
Grant true wisdom from above.
Justice, Truth be ours forever,

Jamaica, land we love.

Jamaica, Jamaica, Jamaica land we love.

Please enjoy the links and exploring Jamaica and its history of the food that we will be preparing for you.

CULTURE

Jamaica