- Population:
- 2,839,000
- Religion:
- Christianity
Jamaica was originally inhabited by the Taíno people before becoming a British colony in the 17th century. It gained independence in 1962 and has since developed a strong cultural identity, particularly in music and sports, while tourism and agriculture remain key economic sectors.
Jamaica is an island nation located in the Caribbean Sea, south of Cuba and west of Hispaniola. Covering an area of approximately 10,990 square kilometers, it has a population of about 2.9 million people as of 2023. The capital and largest city is Kingston. The official language is English, with Jamaican Patois also widely spoken. Jamaica operates as a parliamentary constitutional monarchy, with the British monarch as head of state, represented locally by a Governor-General. The economy is mixed, with key sectors including tourism, mining (bauxite and alumina), agriculture, and manufacturing. Jamaica is known for its vibrant culture, particularly its contributions to music genres like reggae, and for its athletic achievements in sprinting. The country is a member of international organizations such as the United Nations, the Commonwealth of Nations, and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).