Famous Jamaicans

By Robert Nickel


The history of Jamaica is wrapped up in African slavery, British rule, agriculture and music. There are many people, both of Caucasian and African descent who have become world famous for their influence on culture. Perhaps the most famous is the Rastafarian musician Bob Marley. There have been books, articles and volume written about him, so we will look at some of the other famous Jamaicans that have helped shape the world.

As previously stated, the history of Jamaica is closely entwined with slavery. As a result, many social activists have arisen from the country. Bob Marley was a musical activist. Clancy Eccles was also a musical activist. He began life in the ancient Spanish Town and quickly found himself drawn into the ska and reggae songwriting life. He recognized the lack of opportunities his people had, the crippling poverty and wanted to make a change. Eccles used his music to inspire the Jamaican people to rise up.

Sargent William Grant was one of the early activists in Jamaica, credited with starting the protest of the struggle of the working class. He understood that since he had no formal education, the Colonial government of the time would never respect his opinion. He acted as a labor leader while working as a cook, and with the infamous Alexander Bustamante, Grant made sure the British government saw the issues. For his long life of activism, Grant was awarded the Order of Distinction on National Heroes Day in 1974. He died three years later.

Perhaps due to the African influences or maybe Spanish beliefs, Jamaica is considered one of the most homophobic countries on earth. Therefore the life Brian Williamson chose as a Jamaican Gay Rights activist was controversial. He took it upon himself to house and care for gay people in Jamaica that were experiencing difficulty.

In the area of beauty, Jamaica has had three Miss World's and one runner-up in Miss Universe. In 1963 Miss Carole Joan Crawford won the Miss World competition, while in 1976 Miss Cindy Breakspeare one the crown. It wasn't until 1993 that the next Miss World crown was taken by Lisa Hanna. In 2010 Miss Yendi Phillips one 1st runner-up at the Miss Universe competition. There are three other Jamaican ladies that have made their mark on the world with their beauty. Carla Campbell has hit the world stage with her modeling in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, Victoria's Secret, Maxim and Seventeen magazine. Stacey Mackenzie is another Jamaican who has risen to fame through modeling. She now coaches models for the runway.

Jamaica has produced many fine athletes, some of which have found their way to the Olympics or professional sports. Donald Quarrie is a renowned sprinter who has won for Olympic medals, two Pan-American Games medals, and six Commonwealth Games medals. Asafa Powell is another noted sprinter from Jamaica. Since 2005 he has consistently broken the ten second barrier in the 100 meter sprint, with a personal best of 9.72 seconds. He has broken the ten second barrier more than anyone else in history - 65 times.

These are just a handful of famous Jamaicans. There are so many poets, authors, artists, musicians and writers who have emerged from the country. Before you visit Jamaica, do a little research on those noted Jamaicans. When you do land on the island, the culture and surroundings will mean so much more.




About the Author:



Comments (0)

Posting Komentar