Jamaica History:
The history of Jamaica began with the original Jamaicans, the Arwak Indians, who were followed by the Spaniards who built the island’s first western town in the history of Jamaica and named it Seville Nueva, near St. Ann’s Bay on the island’s north coast.

The history of Jamaica is a tapestry of colorful characters and events…a turbulent story of sugar and slaves…Spaniards against Englishmen…howling hurricanes…crushing earthquakes…pirates and naval heroes…

The history of Jamaica gives one an impression and sense of the culture. Like many other Caribbean islands, the history of Jamaica has its roots in European migration and the triange of trade between Africa, the New World and the Old World. Western history of Jamaica begins when Christopher Columbus discovered Jamaica in 1494 and called it St. Jago after the patron saint of Spain. Soon, it revered back to its native name of “Xaymaca” as it was called by the Arawak Indians who initially inhabited the island. “Xaymaca” meant the land of wood and water.

This period in the history of Jamaica saw the island become a British colony in 1655 when the English captured it from the Spaniards. The English turned the island into one vast sugar plantation and sugar became “king”, this would be a serious turning point in the history of Jamaica. The English, however, brought Africans to work as slaves on huge plantations. When the slaves were freed in 1838, many deserted the plantations and settled in the hills to cultivate their own land. This period in the history of Jamaica saw continued fighting within society between ex-slaves- and their descendants and the British. The history of Jamaica changed forever when the British changed policy and granted emancipation to all remaining plantation laborers in 1838. The Maroons, as the plantation worker army was known, are still revered today as some of the most brave and noble figures in the history of Jamaica.

History of Jamaica Sights and Activities
Jamaica Estates & Plantations:
Over the history of Jamaica, the island was home to many lavish estates and mansions that brim with history. In the past, these homes were often owned by the operators of sugar plantations. Today these beautiful estates and plantations provide interesting insights into the history of Jamaica. These Jamaican history lesson are a beautiful setting and are frequently situated in the most picturesque locations on the island.

Good Hope Estate: Actually located in the hills behind Falmouth around a 40 minute drive east of Montego Bay…Built in the 1700’s and once one of the largest sugar plantations on the island, the estate showcases traditional interiors with Oriental rugs over polished wood floors and mahogany furniture. Just below the “bridal suite” was the slave’s prison where they were frequently tortured. The grounds are best seen on horseback.. an interesting setting from the history of Jamaica.

Greenwood Great House: Once the private home of Richard Barrett between 1780 and 1800, it offers a fascinating look complete with authentic furnishings and a collection of 18th century musical instruments.

Rose Hall Great House: The most famous Great House and the legendary home of Annie Palmer (the White Witch) who ruled cruelly and murdered three husbands.