7 Historic Events Jamaicans Witnessed In This Decade

7. Sunday Gambling
The Jamaican Government made amendments to the law in 2013 to allow for lottery games to be sold on Sundays and Public Holidays. In April 2013, Supreme Ventures Limited began selling lottery tickets in Jamaica every day of the year, except on Christmas Day and Good Friday. The move allowed the government to increase its tax earnings from the gaming industry. Lottery winnings in Jamaica are taxed between 20-25%.

6. Jamaica’s First Female Prime Minister
Portia Simpson Miller became Jamaica’s first female Prime Minister in March 2006 after PJ Patterson demitted office. She served as the country’s seventh Prime Minister until September 2007 when her party lost the general elections. On January 5, 2012, Mrs. Simpson Miller was again sworn in as Prime Minister of Jamaica following a resounding victory in the polls.

5. The Tech Revolution
Jamaica has experienced rapid technological advancements in the past decade leading not only to new ways to communicate but also opening up a world of opportunities for innovative entrepreneurial activities. Unfortunately, it has also brought real world risks like fraud scams and identity theft to our doorsteps.

4. Hurricane Sandy
The devastation left by Hurricane Sandy in 2012 won’t be soon forgotten. Forming just below Jamaica, the storm quickly wreaked havoc as it moved over the island, leaving thousands without power for several months in some areas.

3. Tivoli Gardens Incursion
This generation has lived through one of the bloodiest massacres in our nation’s history. The 2010 Tivoli Gardens incursion by the security forces resulted in the death of more than 70 people in just a matter of days. The fact that this number included women, children, and innocent bystanders makes it a shameful stain on our nation’s past.

2. Vybz Kartel Murder Trial
Regardless of personal opinions, few can deny that the Vybz Kartel murder trial was captivating. Extensive media coverage gave many an opportunity to witness the Jamaican justice system up close and offered some hope, if even for a brief moment, that justice is indeed a possibility.

1. Bolt’s World Records
Usain Bolt is probably the next best thing that has happened to Jamaica since Bob Marley. Thanks to him, our little island holds two of the greatest world records. Bolt not only continues to supply the country with gold medals, but he proudly stands behind the black, green and gold, boosting the country’s image internationally. He is an icon, a legend, and a true Jamaican Ambassador.