AfroJamaicans

Afro-Jamaicans are people of African descent who are native to or primarily identify with Jamaica. The vast majority of Afro-Jamaicans are descendants of Africans who were brought to the island as enslaved laborers during the era of the transatlantic slave trade, primarily from West Africa. Their cultural heritage is a rich blend of various African traditions, languages, and beliefs, which have been syncretized with European, Indigenous Taino, and other influences over centuries.

The legacy of slavery has profoundly shaped Afro-Jamaican society, identity, and culture. This includes the development of unique religious practices like Rastafari, spiritual forms such as Kumina, and vibrant folk traditions. Music is a cornerstone of Afro-Jamaican culture, with genres like reggae, dancehall, ska, and mento gaining global recognition and embodying the spirit and history of the people. The Jamaican Patois language, or Jamaican Creole, is widely spoken and is a significant linguistic expression of this heritage.

Afro-Jamaicans constitute the overwhelming majority of Jamaica's population. Their contributions are integral to all aspects of Jamaican life, from its economy and politics to its arts and literature. The diaspora has also led to significant Afro-Jamaican communities in countries like the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada, where they continue to maintain and evolve their cultural identity.