| Like any other country in 1929, Jamaica was | | | | referendum was called to determine whether or not |
| experiencing a drop in its economic growth. The | | | | the people of Jamaica should remain a part of the |
| effects of this were starting to show in a decline of | | | | federation. The people chose independence. |
| social conditions. In 1938 the labor riots were a | | | | In January 1962, a draft of the Independence |
| turning point in the history of Jamaica and its | | | | Constitution was brought before both Houses and |
| independence. | | | | after a full debate was unanimously approved. It was |
| The Bustamante Industrial Trade Union (BITU) was | | | | also agreed that the 300 year old Coat of Arms |
| formed by Alexander Bustamante. This labor union | | | | would be retained and the Latin motto "Indus |
| was later to be involved with the Jamaica Labor | | | | Uterque Serviet Uni" changed to one in English "Out |
| Party. In 1938 Norman Manley, cousin to Alexander | | | | of Many One People". |
| Bustmante, formed the Peoples National Party. | | | | At midnight 5th August 1962 the British Flag was |
| Manley led the country to Self Government and later | | | | lowered and the Jamaican Flag was hoisted for the |
| on Bustamante became the first prime minister of | | | | first time. On the 6th of August 1962 Jamaica was |
| Jamaica. | | | | given its independence. Sir Kenneth Blackburne was |
| In 1944 Adult Suffrage was granted giving all males | | | | the last Colonial Governor and the first Governor |
| and females over the age of 21 to vote. The first | | | | General. Afterwards, Sir Clifford Campbell, formerly |
| election held under the Universal Adult Suffrage was | | | | President of the Senate, became the first Jamaican |
| held in 1944 and the Jamaica Labor Party won 25 out | | | | Governor General. |
| of 32 seats. | | | | Jamaica today is a great place to visit for vacation |
| The Federation of the West Indies was started in | | | | and enjoy the beautiful scenery. |
| 1959 and Jamaica was part of this group. A | | | | |