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Jamaica
The name Jamaica comes from the indigenous Taino word xaymaca, which means "rich in springs" or "land of springs."
Introduction:
Life in Jamaica is all about enjoyment and living life to its fullest. The people prefer to play and socialize over work and this is apparent quickly after meeting nearly any Jamaican. Today's culture is rooted in the country's past, which begins with the fertile lands on the Caribbean island, giving the people enough food from the land and seas to survive so they can focus on trying to make the island a paradise for themselves and their visitors.
Although the people on the island have nearly always focused on farming and fishing, the people themselves have changed drastically over time. Many of the island's indigenous inhabitants have left or were killed over time, making the country today one that is heavily rooted in African roots, although this reliance on the lands and seas has never changed.
With good living conditions present, the people today have little motivation to improve their lot in life as many people make enough to survive and free time is generally rather spent relaxing than improving one's income. Today the people's lifestyle begins after the work day is over and this is rooted in the people and their past. The Jamaicans are primarily of African descent and they have maintained African traditions in food, music, and dance while consistently altering these things to suite their interests and ever-changing culture.
Over time the Jamaican culture has progressed and became something unique, despite its similarities to other Caribbean nations and their shared African roots. The people regularly meet to listen to music and dance as reggae music has spread from Jamaica to nearly everywhere in the world. In conjunction with the music comes jerk-styled foods, rum, and in the past a pipe (although marijuana is illegal and is no longer tolerated). These items are about enjoying life, not gaining more money or expanding their economy.
The people of Jamaica also love sports, including soccer (football), but running rules the country and with track & field stars arising with each Summer Olympics, the country's youth love to compete and run in local competitions and even amongst themselves on the streets or the nearest field. Jamaica is a diverse and changing country, but relaxation and competition still seem to define the culture.
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Information for Jamaica was last updated: November, 2012 ● View our: Sources & Special Thanks