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Book
Jamaica In Focus 2nd Edition
A Guide to the People, Politics and Culture
Series: Latin America In Focus
Published: 2000
Pages: 94
eBook: 9781909013285
Paperback: 9781899365401
A look at the various, sometimes conflicting, aspects of Jamaica: at once a paradise tourist island, the gangster-ridden home of the yardies, a proudly independent democracy, an island struggling with debt and its dependence on a few primary products, and a fantastically vibrant home of musical and sporting achievement. Peter Mason guides the reader through Jamaica's complex evolution and culture grown out of unique ties with Britain, with North America, and with the African slave trade diaspora. The work surveys the land and its people, the evolution of its politics and society, and the state of its economy. Music, culture and tourism are discussed in the context of Jamaica's fantastic achievements in these areas both at home and abroad. The book presents practical information for the interested traveller, on festivals such as Sunsplash and carnival, eco-adventures on Blue Mountain treks, the dancehalls and sporting grounds, and, of course, the beaches.
- Title Page 1
- Copyright Page 2
- Table of Contents 3
- Introduction: The Best and the Worst 4
- 1: Land and People: From Mountains to Ghettos 6
- Kingston 8
- Spanish Town 11
- Out of many ... 12
- 2: History: Island of Conflict 13
- Columbus and after 13
- Pirate Capital 15
- King Sugar 19
- The Road to Independence 26
- 3: Politics: Violent Democracy 29
- Better Must Come 30
- Deliverance 32
- The PNP Returns 32
- 4: Society: Hard Times 36
- Health Services 36
- Women and Families 38
- Crime 41
- Rastafarianism 47
- 5: Economy: Elusive Riches 51
- Bauxite 53
- Agriculture 55
- Tourism 57
- The Environment 62
- 6: Culture: On the World Stage 63
- Reggae 63
- Art and Literature 71
- Sport 74
- Food 78
- Where to Go, What to See 80
- Tips for Travelers 85
- Addresses and Contacts 87
- Further Reading and Bookstores 88
- Facts and Figures 90
Peter Mason
Peter Mason is a journalist and writer, with a long-standing interest in cricket, the Caribbean and Carnival.
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