Jamaica Wyk.-Natalia Zuchowska

Jamaica The official language of Jamaica is English. Jamaicans primarily speak an English-African Creole language known as Jamaican Patois, which has become known widely through the spread of Reggae music. Jamaica is an island nation of the Greater Antilles, 234 kilometres (145 mi) in length and as much as 80 kilometres (50 mi) in width, amounting to 11,100 km2. It is situated in the Caribbean Sea, about 145 kilometres (90 mi) south of Cuba, and 190 kilometres (120 mi) west of Hispaniola, the island harboring the nation-states Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Jamaica is the third largest island and the fourth largest country in the Caribbean. Most major towns and cities are located on the coast.

People of Jamaica Motto : “Out of many, One people” Anthem : “Jamaica, land we love” Presently the following categories of schools exist: Early childhood – privately operated pre- school. Age cohort – 1 – 5 years. Primary – Publicly and privately owned. Ages 5 – 12 years. Secondary – Publicly and privately owned. Ages 12 – 18 years. Tertiary - Community Colleges, Teachers’

Religion in Jamaica Christians - about 59 percent Islam - about 5000 people Jews - about 200 people Faith Baha Buddhism Hinduism Kumina Anglican Methodists

Government and politics Jamaica is a parliamentary democracy and constitutional monarchy with the monarch being represented by a Governor-General.The head of state is Queen Elizabeth II, who officially uses the title "Queen of Jamaica" when she visits the country or performs duties overseas on Jamaica's behalf. Embassy of Jamaica in Washington Inside the Parliament of Jamaica

Culture - music Though a small nation, Jamaica is rich in culture and has a strong global presence. The musical genres reggae, ska, mento, rocksteady, dub,more recently, dancehall and ragga all originated in the island's vibrant, popular urban recording industry. Jamaica also played an important role in the development of punk rock, through reggae and ska. Reggae has also influenced American rap music, as they both share their roots as rhythmic, African styles of music. Some rappers, such as The Notorious B.I.G. and Heavy D, are of Jamaican descent. Internationally known reggae musician Bob Marley was born in Jamaica and is very respected there.

Culture - Sport While the most popular local sport is cricket, on the international stage. Over the past 6 decades Jamaica has produced dozens of world class sprinters including most recently Usain Bolt, world record holder in the 100m for men at 9.58s, and 200m for men at 19.19s. Association football and horse-racing are other popular sports in Jamaica. The national football team qualified for the 1998 FIFA World Cup. Chess, and Basketball are widely played in Jamaica which are supported by the Jamaica Chess Federation (JCF), and the Jamaica Basketball Federation (JBF). Usain Bolt

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