Whether you are from, visited at some point, hear about or have relatives in Jamaica, I think it’s safe to say that you are unfamiliar with some of these fascinating details. This island is not only a popular destination for tourist and you might find a few of these Jamaica country facts both fascinating and surprising.

So, if you want to learn a little more about this island, read on!

The country has a population that consists of over two million people with an area of 4,400 sq miles.

In the Western world, this was the first place that constructed a railway; this was just eighteen years after the British and ahead of the United States.

This was the first country, also in the West to produce banana on a commercial level.

One of the second largest butterflies that you will find in the world can be found on this island, this is the giant yellow swallowtail.

This country was the first English speaking island in the Caribbean that had the first team qualifying for the World Cup, Football. This took place in the 1998 games.

One of the oldest Golf Clubs that you will find in the Western world is located in Manchester Jamaica; this was established in the year 1868.

One of the most interesting Jamaica country facts is that the head of state is appointed by the Queen of England and this is the Governor General. Yes, this is still a mystery to some, considering that this island is now an independent nation. But, the Prime Minister is the head of government and makes the decisions to control the country.

The remainder of this feature will highlight the national symbols that were introduced in Jamaica when the country gained independence in 1962.

The National Motto of Jamaica, this is inscribed on the Coat of Arms, “Out of many, one people”.

The National Flag with the colors black, gold and green.

The National Anthem, a beautiful rendition of a prayer starting with the line: “Eternal Father, bless our land”.

The Coat of Arms, which have the Motto inscribed on it, this replaces the original design that was done in the year 1661.

The National Flower, which is called Lignum Vitae and means “tree of life”.

The National Bird which is the hummingbird or Doctor Bird and is only found on this island.

The National Fruit is the much loved Ackee which is said to come from the African continent. This is also an ingredient in the national dish of ackee and salt fish.

The National Tree is called the Blue Mahoe with beautiful wood that is used to make high quality furniture and craft.

There you have it, some of the interesting Jamaica country facts which are just a little bit of information. You can learn so much more, especially if you delve into the history, lifestyle, government, geography of this island. Now that you are knowledgeable somewhat about this country that is loved by many for its natural wonders, customs, traditions and more, you can go ahead and share this information with your friends and families.

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