Jamaican Language - Jah-mek-yah

Years ago there was a movement to translate all English phrases into patios. This was an attempt to establish patios as an official language, however, I think attempts failed.

I know there was even a translation of sections of the bible into patios, but it didn't fly apparently and did not become too popular.

Nevertheless here are a few terms that Jamaicans use a lot and maybe can help with your understanding of their communication.

"Wah Gwan?" - What's going on?  - What's happening? 

This is usually used as a greeting, but it can literally be a way of finding out what's happening at a particular time.

If there are are terms that you would like the meaning of, or some terms that you know the meaning of, please jot it below.

Famous Jamaicans that are now dead

Do you know any Jamaicans that had a significant impact upon the world, that are now dead?

I know Louise Bennet (Miss Lou)and Bob Marley top this list for putting Jamaica on the map. Let us not let their memory disappear from the pages of history. Jot the names of those you know here and what was their contribution.

Marcus Garvey - famous speech
A few words from the esteemed elder The Honorable Marcus Garvey. We have to understand our history and learn from it. 

The Marcus Garvey Story

Although Marcus  Garvey is respected as a national hero of Jamaica, no doubt he was an international influence.

Remembering Ms Lou.

Gone too soon

Some are our National Heroes

but for the other who did not quite make the list of hero or heroine, but were still significant.

Donald Sangster - The man on our hundred Dollar bill

I just heard that Alan Magnus has passed. He used to be a radio personality for decades on he infamous radio station RJR. I often went to school to his voice on the radio.

Another voice that grew along side his was that of Dorraine Samuels. These personalities will indeed be missed by older Jamaica.