Why the 1692 Earthquake and 1962 Independence Day is significant to Jamaica 60 celebrations

As Jamaica celebrates their 60th year of Independence, from British rule. History alerts us to take note of two dates hidden within each other. On closer observation, once rearranged as with an anagram, it unravels two significant dates in Jamaica’s history. The Earthquake of 1692 and Jamaica Independence 1962. Both dates signify the end of a stronghold through Piracy and then the latter the stronghold of British rule.

The Earthquake of 1692

In 1692 there was a great earthquake, which was felt across the island, however, the most extensive loss of life occurred at Port Royal, on the 7th of June 1692, where two-thirds of the town sunk in the sea. At the time Port Royal was a city on sand in the harbour of Jamaica, Kingston, known as the headquarters for piracy and smuggling. The city was a British territory, and the largest British shipping port and Pirate haven in the Americas.

Sunken pirate city: Port Royal Earthquake of 1692

Port Royal was known as the ‘Wickedest city in the world' due to pirating, prostitutes and heavy drinking. However on that faithful day, over 2000 people died, due to the initial earthquake and a further 2000 perished soon after due to injuries, drowning and illnesses, as a result of the disaster.

Jamaica Independence 1962

On the 6th of August 1962, the Colony of Jamaica gained its full independence from the United Kingdom. This year marks Jamaica’s 60 years of independence from the British Colony. The 6th of August is celebrated each year as a national holiday.

Jamaica National Flag

Key Dates in Jamaica’s History

600 AD or 650 AD – Initial habitants.

Approx 800 AD – The second wave of inhabitants lived on the island called the Awarak tribe, the Taino people named the island ‘Xaymaca’, meaning ‘Land of Wood and Water’.

Spanish colonial period (1494-1655)

Jamaica was invaded and colonised by the Spanish, and named ‘Santiago’. The Taino people soon died out, due to being overworked and exposed to European diseases bought on the island.

British Rule (1655-1962)

Became an English Colony and was renamed ‘Jamaica’ when the island was captured by the English from Spain.

1707 – Jamaica becomes a British Colony.

1962 – The Colony of Jamaica gains its full independence from the United Kingdom.

2022 – Jamaica celebrates 60 years of Independence.