Jamaica Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Jamaica, State of the Caribbean; 10,990 km², 2.9 million residents (2019).Jamaica, the third largest island in the Caribbean, is located 150 km south of Cuba. The capital is Kingston (584,600 residents, 2012).

Country facts

Jamaica / Jamaica
Country abbreviation: JM
Area: 10 990 km²
Population (2019): 2.9 million residents
Capital: Kingston
Main language: English
State: Monarchy
Head of State: Elizabeth II (Queen)
Head of Government: Andrew Holness
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 5,356
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 4,990
Currency unit: 1 Jamaican dollar = 100 cents
Currency code: JMD
Country number (telephony): 1
Internet domain name: jm
Time difference compared to Sweden: −6
National Day: 1st Monday in August (Independence Day, 1962)

Nature

Land use: forest (20%), agricultural land (17%), other (63%)
Highest mountain: Blue Mountain Peak (2,256 m asl)

Population

Population density (2019): 264 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 0.9%; birth rate 17 ‰, death rate 8 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (27%), 15-64 (64%), 65- (9%)
Life expectancy (2019): men 72 years, women 76 years
Infant mortality (2019): 13 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 2 million residents
HDI (2017): 0.732 (place 97 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 56%
Most populous cities (2012): Kingston (584,600 residents), Portmore (182,200), Spanish Town (147,200),

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (7%), industry (21%), service (72%)
Exports (2016): US $ 1,296 million
Main export products: aluminum, bauxite, sugar, rum
Main exporting countries: USA, Netherlands, Canada
Imports (2017): US $ 5 151 million
Main import products: food, oil
Main importing countries: USA, Colombia, Japan
Railway network: nothing in use

Geography

Location and Borders

Jamaica is an island nation located in the Caribbean Sea, south of Cuba and west of Haiti. It is part of the Greater Antilles, a group of islands that also includes Puerto Rico, Cuba, and Hispaniola. Jamaica is the third-largest island in the Caribbean, covering an area of approximately 10,991 square kilometers (4,244 square miles). Its strategic location between the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea has made it an important hub for trade and cultural exchange over the centuries.

Jamaica is surrounded by the Caribbean Sea to the south and the Atlantic Ocean to the north, with its closest neighbors being Cuba to the north-west and Haiti to the east. The island has a wide variety of landscapes, from tropical rainforests to mountainous regions and coastal plains. Jamaica’s coastline is dotted with beaches, coves, and natural harbors, making it a popular destination for tourists.

Physical Features

Jamaica has a diverse topography, which includes mountains, hills, plains, and an extensive coastline. The Blue Mountains, located in the eastern part of the island, are the highest range and reach a peak of 2,256 meters (7,402 feet) at Blue Mountain Peak. The Blue Mountains are famous for their coffee, and the area is a popular destination for hiking and nature tourism.

The island is also home to a variety of natural wonders, including rivers, waterfalls, and caves. The Black River, located in the south, is one of the longest rivers in Jamaica, and it flows through a large swamp area, home to numerous species of wildlife. The island has several beautiful waterfalls, such as the famous Dunn’s River Falls in Ocho Rios, which is a popular tourist attraction. Additionally, there are underground limestone caves such as those in the Green Grotto Caves, which attract visitors interested in geology and history.

Jamaica’s diverse ecosystems support a variety of wildlife, including numerous bird species, reptiles, and mammals. The island is also known for its rich marine life, with coral reefs and mangroves that provide habitats for marine animals and support the fishing industry.

Climate

Jamaica enjoys a tropical climate, characterized by warm temperatures year-round. The climate is typically divided into a wet season and a dry season. The wet season runs from May to October, while the dry season lasts from November to April. Temperatures range from around 23°C (73°F) to 31°C (88°F), with coastal areas generally being warmer than the mountainous regions.

In the wet season, rainfall is frequent, especially in the mountainous regions, where the climate is more humid. The coastal areas experience less rainfall but can be impacted by tropical storms and hurricanes, particularly between June and November. The mountainous terrain in the eastern part of the island can result in cooler temperatures at higher elevations, creating a unique microclimate for areas like the Blue Mountains.

While hurricanes and tropical storms pose a threat during the rainy season, the island’s overall climate remains ideal for agriculture, tourism, and outdoor activities throughout the year. The consistent warmth and sunshine make Jamaica a popular destination for beach vacations and outdoor adventures.

Natural Resources

Jamaica’s natural resources are diverse and include minerals, agricultural land, and marine resources. The island has significant deposits of bauxite, the primary source of aluminum, and Jamaica has long been one of the world’s top producers of bauxite. The mining industry, particularly bauxite mining, has played a significant role in the island’s economy.

In addition to minerals, Jamaica’s fertile land is used for growing a variety of crops. Sugarcane, bananas, coffee, and citrus fruits are some of the island’s major agricultural exports. The island’s climate and rich soil also support the cultivation of crops such as cocoa, yams, and spices like pimento (allspice). Jamaica is also known for its thriving fishing industry, particularly in the areas surrounding the coastline, where fish such as snapper and lobster are abundant.

People

Population and Ethnic Composition

Jamaica has a population of approximately 2.9 million people, making it one of the larger Caribbean nations. The population is ethnically diverse, with the majority of Jamaicans being of African descent. This is the result of the island’s history of slavery, which brought millions of Africans to Jamaica during the transatlantic slave trade. Today, people of African ancestry make up about 90% of the population.

Other ethnic groups in Jamaica include those of East Indian, Chinese, and European descent, particularly from Britain and other parts of Europe. There is also a small population of indigenous people, though the original Taíno people, who inhabited the island before European colonization, have largely disappeared.

Jamaica’s ethnic diversity has contributed to the rich cultural fabric of the nation, blending African, European, and Asian influences into its music, food, and language. The island’s relatively small population density has fostered a close-knit society where community ties and family connections are highly valued.

Language

The official language of Jamaica is English, which is used in government, education, and formal settings. However, the majority of Jamaicans speak Jamaican Patois (also known as Patwa or Creole) in everyday conversation. Jamaican Patois is an English-based creole language that has influences from African languages, Spanish, Portuguese, and other European languages. It is characterized by its distinct pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar.

Patois is a vital part of Jamaican identity and culture, and it is used in music, literature, and daily life. While English is used in formal contexts, Jamaican Patois is the language of the streets and is commonly heard in conversations, music (especially reggae), and popular culture. In recent years, there has been a growing movement to preserve and promote the use of Patois, as it is an important part of Jamaica’s linguistic heritage.

Religion

Jamaica is a predominantly Christian country, with approximately 70% of the population identifying as Protestant, while about 20% are Roman Catholic. Christianity has had a significant influence on Jamaican culture, particularly in the areas of holidays, festivals, and family traditions. The island’s religious practices are often a blend of African, European, and Christian traditions.

The Rastafarian movement, which originated in Jamaica in the 1930s, has also played an important role in shaping the nation’s cultural and spiritual identity. Rastafarianism is a religious and social movement that draws on elements of Christianity, Afrocentric pride, and the veneration of Emperor Haile Selassie I of Ethiopia as a divine figure. The movement’s influence is particularly notable in reggae music, with icons like Bob Marley helping to spread Rastafarian beliefs and culture worldwide.

There are also smaller religious communities in Jamaica, including Hindus, Muslims, and Jews, as well as people who practice indigenous faiths. Religious diversity is generally accepted in Jamaica, with many of the island’s festivals, such as Christmas, Easter, and the annual Reggae Sumfest, reflecting this cultural mixture.

Economy

Key Industries

Jamaica has a mixed economy with a reliance on tourism, agriculture, mining, and services. The tourism industry is a major economic driver, contributing significantly to the country’s GDP and providing a large number of jobs in hotels, restaurants, transportation, and entertainment. The island’s beautiful beaches, warm climate, and cultural attractions, such as reggae music and local festivals, make it a popular destination for international visitors. Key tourist areas include Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, Negril, and Kingston.

In addition to tourism, agriculture has long been a key part of Jamaica’s economy. Historically, the island’s economy was built on the production of sugarcane, but today, other crops such as bananas, coffee, yams, and citrus fruits play a more significant role. The island’s fertile land and favorable climate provide ideal growing conditions for a variety of crops, which are both consumed locally and exported.

Jamaica is also known for its significant reserves of bauxite, a mineral used in the production of aluminum. The bauxite industry has been a major part of the Jamaican economy since the mid-20th century, and the country remains one of the world’s largest producers of this mineral. The mining and manufacturing sectors contribute to the country’s exports, and the bauxite industry has provided significant employment and infrastructure development.

Services and Manufacturing

The services sector, particularly finance, retail, and construction, has seen growth in recent years, contributing to economic development. Kingston, the capital city, is the economic center of the country and hosts a growing number of financial institutions and corporate offices. The banking and financial sector is modernizing, with efforts to expand digital services and access to banking in rural areas.

Manufacturing is another important sector in Jamaica, with industries such as food processing, textiles, and chemicals being particularly significant. The country’s manufacturing sector relies on both local raw materials, like agricultural products, and imported inputs, such as petroleum and machinery. While manufacturing is not as dominant as services or agriculture, it is still a vital part of the economy, with industries exporting products to regional and international markets.

Economic Challenges

Despite its natural resources and thriving tourism sector, Jamaica faces several economic challenges. High levels of debt, unemployment, and poverty continue to affect the country’s development. While the government has implemented reforms to improve economic stability and attract foreign investment, challenges like income inequality and social unrest remain.

In addition, the Jamaican economy is vulnerable to global price fluctuations, particularly in the bauxite and agricultural sectors. Natural disasters, such as hurricanes and floods, also present challenges, particularly in the agricultural sector, which is heavily reliant on favorable weather conditions. The government is working to diversify the economy and reduce reliance on a few key industries, focusing on sectors like technology, renewable energy, and infrastructure development.

Government

Political System

Jamaica is a parliamentary democracy with a constitutional monarchy. The country’s political system is based on the Westminster model, and it operates under the 1962 Constitution, which established Jamaica as an independent nation within the Commonwealth of Nations. The monarch of the United Kingdom is the head of state, represented by the Governor-General of Jamaica. However, the role of the Governor-General is largely ceremonial, and executive power is vested in the Jamaican Prime Minister and Cabinet.

The Jamaican Parliament consists of two houses: the House of Representatives and the Senate. The House of Representatives has 63 members who are directly elected by the people, while the Senate is composed of 21 members who are appointed by the Governor-General on the advice of the Prime Minister and the opposition leader. The Parliament is responsible for passing laws and overseeing the government’s activities.

Elections and Political Parties

Elections in Jamaica are held every five years, and the country has a multi-party system. The two major political parties in Jamaica are the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) and the People’s National Party (PNP). These parties have dominated the political landscape for much of Jamaica’s post-independence history, and political rivalry between the two has often been intense.

Jamaica’s political system is based on the principle of universal suffrage, and the country has a relatively high voter turnout compared to other nations in the Caribbean. Elections are generally free and fair, though occasional instances of political violence and allegations of electoral fraud have marred the process in the past.

Legal System

Jamaica’s legal system is based on the English common law tradition, reflecting the country’s colonial history under British rule. The judiciary is independent of the executive and legislative branches, and the courts have the authority to interpret the Constitution and resolve legal disputes. The highest court in Jamaica is the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council in London, though the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) is increasingly becoming the final appellate court in the region.

Jamaica has a mixed legal system, with both civil and criminal law matters being handled in different courts. The legal system provides for individual rights, the rule of law, and due process, but the country faces challenges with crime and the overburdening of its judicial system due to high caseloads.

Culture

Language and Literature

Jamaica’s culture is influenced by its history of African, European, and Asian (Indian and Chinese) migration and colonization. English is the official language, and it is used in education, government, and business. However, Jamaican Patois, an English-based Creole language, is widely spoken among the general population and reflects the island’s African roots.

Jamaican literature is known for its rich oral traditions, storytelling, and poetic expression. Works by authors such as Claude McKay, who was part of the Harlem Renaissance, and contemporary writers like Marlon James, whose novel A Brief History of Seven Killings won the Booker Prize, reflect the complexities of Jamaican society. Jamaican literature often explores themes of identity, race, social issues, and the struggles for independence.

Music and Dance

Jamaica is known worldwide for its contributions to music, particularly reggae. Reggae music, with its roots in ska and rocksteady, was popularized by artists like Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, and Jimmy Cliff. Reggae’s influence can be seen around the world, promoting messages of peace, love, and social justice. The iconic rhythm of reggae, along with its lyrical focus on Rastafarianism and resistance to oppression, made it a global symbol of Jamaican identity.

In addition to reggae, Jamaica is known for its vibrant dancehall scene, which emerged in the late 1970s and 1980s. Dancehall music has influenced global pop culture, particularly in the areas of fashion, language, and music production. Jamaican music continues to shape global trends and remains a vital aspect of the country’s cultural identity.

Festivals and Traditions

Jamaica’s festivals and traditions celebrate the island’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant history. One of the most important festivals is Reggae Sumfest, held annually in Montego Bay, which attracts international reggae artists and fans. Carnival, inspired by the Caribbean’s African heritage, is also widely celebrated, featuring colorful parades, music, and dance.

Other major cultural events include Emancipation Day (August 1), which marks the abolition of slavery, and Independence Day (August 6), which celebrates Jamaica’s independence from the United Kingdom in 1962. These holidays are marked by community events, cultural exhibitions, and performances that highlight Jamaican music, food, and traditions.

Cuisine

Jamaican cuisine is a blend of African, European, and indigenous influences, with a focus on bold flavors and spicy ingredients. Traditional dishes include jerk chicken, seasoned with a flavorful marinade of allspice, thyme, and Scotch bonnet peppers, and ackee and saltfish, the national dish made with salted cod and the native ackee fruit. Other popular foods include curried goat, rice and peas, and plantains.

Jamaican food reflects the island’s cultural melting pot and its history of colonialism, slavery, and migration. Street food, such as patties (flaky pastries filled with spiced meat), bammy (cassava flatbread), and pepper shrimp, is widely enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.