People of Jamaica

The natural beauty that was granted to Jamaica’s earth was also extended to its Jamaica people and this sets them apart from the rest of the Caribbean islands. When you visit this island you will find the people traditionally well cultured, respectful, welcoming and hospitable.

There are over 2.5 million people making up this island and nearly every race that you can think of is represented on this little paradise. There are English, African, Scottish, Spanish, Irish, Chinese, Indian, Syrian and German; all calling this land their home.

They all come together creating an interesting mix of exceptional cultural and racial medley. The Jamaican people are colorful, vibrant and very strong minded individuals who are passionate.

They are not afraid of speaking out on issues whether political or social and are very outspoken with their opinions; but they have the most loving and warm hearts.

There is nowhere else on earth that you will visit and encounter such a diverse culture reflecting the many ethnicities that landed on these shores so many centuries ago. They all withstand the enslavement and oppression and came through as survivors; full of enthralling tales that will touch you to the core.

The Jamaican people have a distinctive culture filled with fascinating music, colorful dressing and delectable cuisine, which stand out in contrast from the self-indulgent lifestyle that you will experience at the resorts. When you meet with the Jamaicans in the streets you will come alive through the different sounds, sights and smells that will tantalize you.

There is always a smiling face beaming from the many shades whether it be rich chocolate or very light complexion; you will see features that are rarely duplicated elsewhere.

You will see proud noses, blue eyes, small noses, strong chins, full lips, dark eyes, thin mouths, unruly locks, corkscrew curls and straight hair. When you are on this island you have to think global, to really understand the rich heritage and history and appreciate these shades and shapes.

It is the African and the Europeans that dominates and have the most influences on the people. The African culture is everywhere it’s reflected in the food, ninety percent of the faces, language, religions, customs and crafts.

The Indians, Chinese, Syrians, Jews and Lebanese all display a piece of their culture in the aromas and flavors of the food and their entrepreneurial spirit. The place names, educational and governmental systems, legal, language, religion and architecture; these are all marks of the English, Spanish, Scots, Germans, Irish and Europeans.

Jamaicans are naturally warm individuals and will offer hugs, hearty hellos and handshakes easily. It is very rare that you will meet an individual just smiling over some humour; quite often you will see strong gesticulation as they burst out in loud contagious laughter. You will hear most persons saying that laughter is the best medicine, you seldom see them cry.

You will not find a Jamaican who does not have music pulsating through their veins; they have this bouncing rhythm that seems to be inborn; full of creativity and energy.

Their past struggles and independence has made them into strong and resilient persons who refused to be restrained. If you try to confirm them to boundaries they will go ahead and break them whether on a small scale or on international levels. This is evident in the sports and music that they continue to excel in worldwide.

The customs and traditions from the past ancestors are transformed in distinct ways making it only Jamaican. Sometimes to the outside world these people will seem tactless as they are not afraid to say things as they see it.

You will hear saying things such as browning, coolie, blacka, Miss Chin or gal; they are not being disrespectful so you have no need to feel offended. That is just how some persons make light of the mixed heritage and acknowledge it.

All of this just reflects how they have mingled, mixed and break down barriers, making them “out of many, living in love”.