@Jamaica
Introduction Jamaica
Background:
Jamaica gained full independence within the British Commonwealth in
1962. Deteriorating economic conditions during the 1970s led to
recurrent violence and a dropoff in tourism. Elections in 1980 saw
the democratic socialists voted out of office. Subsequent
governments have been open market oriented. Political violence
marred elections during the 1990s.
Geography Jamaica
Location:
Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, south of Cuba
Geographic coordinates:
18 15 N, 77 30 W
Map references:
Central America and the Caribbean
Area:
total: 10,991 sq km
land: 10,831 sq km
water: 160 sq km
Area - comparative:
slightly smaller than Connecticut
Land boundaries:
0 km