October is a special time in Jamaica because the island celebrates Heroes Month.

During this month, locals honor the lives, achievements, and sacrifices of the island's seven national heroes.

You might have seen their busts at the Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston, but do you know much about these extraordinary individuals and where they came from?

These heroes' legacies continue to thrive, not only in the places they once called home but also in the hearts and minds of Jamaicans and admirers all over the world.

So, who are Jamaica's national heroes and where in Jamaica are they from?

Let's take a trip down memory lane.

Our journey begins in the parish of Saint James where Samuel Sharpe, a Baptist deacon and leader of the 1831-32 Baptist War, was born.

Samuel Sharpe played a big role in pushing to end slavery in Jamaica.

His birthplace, Montego Bay, is a bustling city known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant culture.

While visiting Montego Bay, spend some time at Sam Sharpe Square, which serves as a reminder of his legacy and the struggle for freedom.

Nanny of the Maroons, Portland

Moving to the island's eastern side, we arrive in the parish of Portland.

This is the birthplace of Nanny of the Maroons.

Nanny was a strong leader of the Maroons, who fought against the British rulers.

The rugged terrain of the Rio Grande Valley is where she and many Maroons called home.

To this day, locals in Portland still honor the Maroons' history with tours and special events.





Marcus Garvey, Saint Ann

The parish of Saint Ann is widely known for its lush landscapes and pristine beaches, but it is also the birthplace of Jamaica's first national hero, Marcus Garvey.

Born in the town of St. Ann's Bay, Garvey went on to become a global icon of black empowerment and pan-Africanism.

Visit the Marcus Garvey Birthplace Museum in St. Ann's Bay on your next trip to Jamaica.

George William Gordon, Saint Thomas

Let's head east to the parish of Saint Thomas, the birthplace of George William Gordon.

Gordon was an advocate for social justice who lobbied for fair treatment of the Jamaican people during colonial times.

The capital of Saint Thomas, Morant Bay, holds a rich history.

Visit the famous Morant Bay Courthouse, where George William Gordon's memory is kept alive.

Paul Bogle, Saint Thomas 

We're still in the parish of Saint Thomas because it also the birthplace of Paul Bogle, a Baptist deacon and key figure in the Morant Bay Rebellion of 1865.

Today, you can visit the Paul Bogle Monument in Morant Bay Square to pay tribute to his memory.

Norman Manley, Manchester

The parish of Manchester proudly claims Norman Manley as one of its own.

Manley was a visionary leader, who played a crucial role in Jamaica's transition to self-governance and independence.

In previous years, his home community of Roxborough had a beautiful museum dedicated to his life and achievements.

Alexander Bustamante, Hanover

Our journey rounds up in the western parish of Hanover where Alexander Bustamante was born.

Bustamante's legacy is still celebrated in the capital of Hanover, Lucea, with monuments and memorials honoring his contributions to Jamaica's history.

Historic sites in Jamaica

Take the time to visit the many historic places in Jamaica.

It is a great way to understand the island's fascinating history and the stories of its people.