Region: | Caribbean |
Capital: | Kingston |
Population: | 2,961,167 (138th Rank) |
Size: | 10,991 km² (165th Largest) |
Language: | English |
Density: | 273 per Km2 |
Currency: | Jamaican dollar |
National flower: | Lignum Vitae |
National dish: | Ackee and saltfish |
Quick Facts
Reggae Roots: Jamaica is the birthplace of reggae music, a genre that gained international prominence largely due to the legendary artist Bob Marley. The island’s musical influence extends to other genres like dancehall and ska as well.
World’s Fastest Sprinters: Jamaica is renowned for producing some of the fastest sprinters in the world, such as Usain Bolt and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce. The island’s athletes have made a significant impact on track and field events globally.
Blue Mountain Coffee: One of the most expensive and sought-after types of coffee in the world, Blue Mountain Coffee, originates from Jamaica’s Blue Mountains. The unique climatic conditions and soil composition contribute to the coffee’s distinctive flavor.
Pirate History: Port Royal, located near Kingston, was once known as the “wickedest city on Earth” during the 17th century. It was a notorious hub for pirates and privateers before an earthquake in 1692 largely submerged the city.
Rastafarian Movement: Jamaica is the birthplace of the Rastafarian religion, a spiritual movement that emerged in the 1930s. It combines Judeo-Christian beliefs with the African diasporic experience, and it has had a significant influence on Jamaican culture and beyond.