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History of Jamaica. The following history of Jamaica focuses on events from the time of European contact. For treatments of the island in its regional context, see West Indies and history of Latin America. Early period. The first inhabitants of Jamaica probably came from islands to the east in two waves of migration.
2 days ago · Jamaica, island country of the West Indies. It is the third largest island in the Caribbean Sea, after Cuba and Hispaniola. Jamaica is about 146 miles (235 km) long and varies from 22 to 51 miles (35 to 82 km) wide. The national capital is Kingston. Learn more about Jamaica in this article.
On August 6, 1962, Jamaica became independent with full dominion status within the Commonwealth, under a constitution that retained the British monarch as head of state. Bustamante assumed the title of prime minister. The following year Jamaica joined the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
History. When Christopher Columbus landed in Jamaica in 1494, the island was inhabited by the peaceful Arawak people. During 150 years of Spanish rule, the Arawak were virtually exterminated, and African slaves were brought to the island. A British force invaded successfully in 1655. Jamaica remained a British colony until 1962.
