Culture of Jamaica

Jamaican culture is the religion, norms, values and lifestyle that defines the people of Jamaica. The culture is mixed, with an ethnically diverse society, stemming from a history of inhabitants beginning with the original Taino people. The Taino people were enslaved by the Spanish, who were then overthrown by the British, who brought Africans to Jamaica to be enslaved and work on the plantations. Black slaves became the dominant cultural force as they suffered and resisted the harsh conditions of forced labour. After the abolition of slavery, Chinese and Indian migrants were transported to the island as indentured workers, bringing with them ideas from the Far East. These contributions resulted in a diversity that affected the language, music, dance, religion, and social norms and practices of the Jamaican people.

The official language of the Jamaican people is English (derived from British influence) with a local dialect called Patois (pronounced "patwa") that is spoken by majority of its people. This dialect is a combination of the languages from the different inhabitants in its history. It was developed by the slaves over time in an effort to communicate with each other, especially given that they were from different countries and, for the Africans, also from different tribes.

By far, the largest religion in Jamaica is the Christian faith. The Anglican Church, Catholic Church, Baptists, and the Church of God are present throughout the country. Many old churches have been carefully maintained and/or restored. The Rastafari movement is a derivative of the larger Christian culture, but its origins were influenced by rising consciousness of Africa, and an awareness of political events in that continent. There are also a small number of Jewish synagogues in Jamaica, dating from the 17th century.

Elements of ancient African religions remain, especially in remote areas throughout the island. Some of these practices are described generally as Obeah, Kumina, or Pocomania. Though the congregations are small, they are visited by many Christian and non-Christians seeking an experience they have not found in the churches. It is estimated that as much as 40% of the population secretly seek the services of the African traditional religious healers when confronted with serious problems that conventional medicine cannot remedy.

"The Baha'i movement in Jamaica began about 50 years [in 1942] ago when a doctor from Portland, Dr. Malcolm King, brought the teaching from the United States." In 2003, as part of the 60th anniversary celebration of the establishment of Baha'i in Jamaica, the Governor General of Jamaica, Sir Howard Cooke, proclaimed a National Bahá'í Day to be held annually on 25 July. In 2005, the community of about 5000 celebrated their activity and presence in Jamaica with the international Bahá'í choir, The Voices of Bahá. The choir performed at Ward Theatre and the University's Chapel, with proceeds earmarked to two Jamaican charities, (one serving families of policemen slain in the line of duty, and the one Denham Town Golden Age Home).

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