Jamaica was discovered by Christopher Columbus on May 4, 1494. The Spanish
(who ruled the island until 1655) were the first Europeans to explore the
Caribbean. They eventually settled the Greater Antilles and either killed
or absorbed the Arawak Indians native to the larger islands. The Antilles
held a favored position because of their proximity to gold deposits, supply
of Indian labor, easy access, fertile soil, and favorable climate. The
region became known for its production of sugar, coffee, spices, and
tropical fruits. The importance of the Antilles declined as the Spanish
advanced into the New World through Mexico and Peru, and the islands mostly
became supply bases. For centuries the Caribbean was a war zone fought over
by European powers - England, France, Spain, and Holland - as well as
pirates.
Historical events have identified Jamaica as a leader in the Caribbean.
In the late 1600's, the city of Port Royal, known then as
"The wickedest city in the world", was home to Sir Henry Morgan,
a famous English Buccaneer who later became Governor of Jamaica.
At that time, the island's sugar plantation owners
were among the most powerful financial leaders in Europe,
as Jamaica was the largest sugar producer for England.
This era came to an end in 1838 when slavery was abolished.
Naturally, Jamaican's evolved into a multicultural society and today,
it's motto "Out of many, one people",
is the national pride and joy of the Jamaican people.
In this century, the Windward Passage became a major shipping
route between the eastern United States and the Panama Canal.
