Jamaica’s National Heroes bravely confronted the system of colonialism, altering the trajectory of Jamaica’s history and bestowing social and political liberation upon its citizens. Today, the statues of Jamaica’s seven National Heroes stand majestically in the National Heroes Park in Kingston, evoking a sense of uplifting inspiration and serving as powerful, unforgettable emblems of Jamaica’s steadfast resilience.
For a long time in the UK, we were left to find out for ourselves about the famous blacks in history because we weren’t taught it in school. Now, with the help of Black History Month in October of every year, we have access to information that maps the course of our history through the ages. Black people can be remembered for other things aside from slavery.
The Order of National Hero is an honour awarded by the government of Jamaica. It is a part of the Jamaican honours system that has been in place since 1969.
In Jamaica, Heroes Day is celebrated on the third Monday in October. On this day, Jamaicans think about their contributions to the fight against slavery and injustice, and they give thanks.
List of Jamaica’s National Heroes
Sir Alexander Bustamante
Nanny of the Maroons
Samuel Sharpe
Paul Bogle
Marcus Mosiah Garvey
Norman Washington Manley
George William Gordon