Jamaicans

Jamaicans are citizens of Jamaica, an island nation in the Caribbean Sea. Jamaica lies south of Cuba and west of Hispaniola. The capital and largest city is Kingston. The population is about 2.9 million.

The population is predominantly of African descent, with minorities of mixed heritage and communities with East Indian, Chinese, European, and Middle Eastern ancestry. Indigenous Taíno were the island's first inhabitants. The national motto Out of Many, One People reflects Jamaica's multicultural origins. The official language is English, while Jamaican Patois is widely spoken.

Originally inhabited by Taíno, Jamaica was claimed by Spain in the 16th century and became a British colony in the 17th century after the 1655 conquest. Slavery and plantation agriculture shaped its early society. Slavery was abolished in 1834, and Jamaica gained independence from the United Kingdom on August 6, 1962. It is a constitutional monarchy with a governor-general and a prime minister as head of government.

Jamaican culture is known for music, including ska, rocksteady, reggae, and dancehall, with global influence through artists such as Bob Marley. The country has a strong tradition in athletics, particularly sprinting. Religion is predominantly Christian, with Rastafari as a notable movement; there are also Hindu, Muslim, and other communities.

Key economic sectors include tourism, bauxite mining, agriculture (sugar and citrus), and remittances. The economy faces challenges such as inequality, crime, and climate-related risks.

A substantial diaspora in the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada maintains cultural and economic ties with Jamaica.