A Concise History of Jamaica

A social, economic, political, and cultural history of Jamaica over the past millennium, including the development of the Taino society, slavery, colonialism, Jamaican independence, and the evolution of the nation since the early 1960s, is covered in Kenneth Morgan's book. It explores significant issues like race, slavery, empire, poverty, and colonialism and the unequal social structure that prevailed for much of Jamaica's history.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 14 December 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Kenneth Morgan's history of Jamaica is a comprehensive examination of the island's social, economic, political, and cultural development over the past millennium. It encompasses various significant periods and themes, including the pre-1500 era, the two centuries of slavery and its aftermath, the period of colonialism, the backdrop to Jamaican independence, and the evolution of the nation since the early 1960s. Throughout his work, Morgan delves into critical issues such as race, slavery, empire, poverty, and colonialism, as well as the unequal social structure that prevailed for much of Jamaica's history. He highlights the dominance of a small, predominantly white elite over black and brown individuals, who were subjected to their control and influence on the social scale.

The history of Jamaica is a complex tapestry woven with the threads of social, economic, political, and cultural evolution. Before the arrival of European explorers in the 15th century, the island was home to the Taino civilization, a vibrant and advanced society that thrived for centuries. However, the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors marked the beginning of a tumultuous period that would see the island subjected to centuries of slavery and colonialism.

The period of slavery, which lasted from 1660 to 1860, was a dark chapter in Jamaican history. The island's indigenous people were brutally enslaved and forced to work on plantations, where they toiled under harsh conditions and suffered immense human rights abuses. The aftermath of slavery was marked by a struggle for freedom and equality, with the abolition of slavery in 1838 leading to the emancipation of the enslaved people.

Colonialism, which followed the abolition of slavery, continued to shape the island's political and economic landscape. Jamaica was ruled by the British Empire until 1945, when it gained independence. However, the legacy of colonialism persisted, with the island facing economic challenges, social inequality, and political instability.

The period leading up to Jamaican independence was marked by a struggle for self-determination and social justice. The island's political leaders, such as Marcus Garvey and Norman Manley, played a pivotal role in advocating for Jamaican sovereignty and the abolition of colonialism. The landmark Universal Adult Suffrage Act of 1944, which granted all Jamaican men the right to vote, was a significant milestone in the country's quest for independence.

Since gaining independence in 1945, Jamaica has undergone significant social, economic, and political transformations. The country has experienced periods of economic growth and development, as well as periods of political unrest and social challenges. Jamaica has also faced numerous environmental issues, such as deforestation, pollution, and climate change, which have posed significant threats to the island's natural resources and ecosystems.

In conclusion, Kenneth Morgan's history of Jamaica provides a comprehensive and authoritative account of the island's past. It explores the complex social, economic, political, and cultural factors that have shaped the island's development over the past millennium, from the pre-1500 era of the Taino civilization to the contemporary period. Through his work, Morgan sheds light on the struggles and achievements of Jamaica's people, highlighting the resilience and determination of the Jamaican people in the face of adversity.

Weight: 586g
Dimension: 140 x 215 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108459181