Jamaica was originally inhabited by the Aarawaks or Tainos from South America. Christopher Columbus landed in Jamaica by 1494; this was followed by the British taking control over Jamaica for 200 years. During the British rule, Jamaica became the leading producer and exporter of sugar with the help of imported African slaves. The country worked on gaining independence from the British, and in 1962, Jamaica attained complete independence.   

Apart from its rich political history, Jamaica has a rich and diverse culture. Jamaica’s popular forms of music such as reggae, ska, mento, rocksteady, dub, dancehall and ragga are popular worldwide. Dance, theatre and literature are equally important in Jamaica. Jamaica is also the birthplace of the Rastafari Movement. Woodwork and metalwork are important aspects of Jamaican culture.

Jamaica, the largest island of the Commonwealth Caribbean, lies to the south of Cuba and to the west of Haiti. To its south-west is the Pedro Bank and to its south-east lies the Morant Cays.  The island is made up of ancient volcanoes, layers of limestone, mountains, valleys, plateaus and costal plains.