Did you know that the British government once ruled Jamaica and several other islands in the Caribbean?

Before developing Caribbean cultures, languages, and national emblems that you enjoy today, these islands followed British laws, education, and lifestyle. 

However, things changed in 1956 when the Parliament of Westminister passed the British Caribbean Act, establishing a federation among British territories in the Caribbean, known as the British West Indies.

There were some challenges in the federation and Jamaica withdrew in 1962 to create its constitution.

An election was held and Sir Alexander Bustamante became the first prime minister of independent Jamaica.

Goodbye to the Union Jack

You're probably familiar with independence celebrations in Jamaica lasting one day. 

However, the first independence celebration lasted two weeks starting on July 30 to August 12, 1962. 

The most significant events of the celebrations were the National Float Parade and the National Flag Raising ceremony.

Hundreds of Jamaicans gathered at the National Stadium on August 5, 1962 for the National Flag Raising ceremony.

At 11:59 PM the British National Flag known as the Union Jack was lowered and Jamaica's new national flag - black, green, and gold was hoisted. 

This was welcomed by loud cheers and applause from the crowd, symbolizing the start of a new era in Jamaica. 

Jamaica's new identity

In the weeks leading up to the national Independence celebration, the government held a public song competition in search of a national anthem. 

“Jamaica Proud we Stand” composed by bandmaster Edward Wade of the West India Regiment was initially selected.

However, it was later rejected because it mirrored the British.

The joint committee then identified “Jamaica Land We Love”, as the island's official national anthem.

The anthem was written by Reverend Hugh Sherlock and the music by Robert Lightbourne.

Today, Jamaica has its national emblems such as the coat of arms, the national costume - the bandana and six national heroes and one national heroine.