It could be argued that the movement toward self-government and independence in Jamaica started in the 1930s. It was during this period of political upheaval that Jamaica’s main political parties were born. The Jamaica Labour Party (JLP), led by Alexander Bustamante, emerged from the trade union also formed by Bustamante. This trade union still bears his name. A few months later his cousin, Norman Manley, a former Rhodes Scholar and a leading barrister, launched the People’s National Party (PNP). Both Bustamante and Manley have been immortalised in Jamaica’s history as they have been made Jamaica’s National Heroes.
The British Government agreed a new constitution in 1944, which heralded in universal adult suffrage and an elected parliament. In December 1944 Jamaica had its first general election, which was won decisively by the JLP taking twenty-two of the thirty-two seats. In January 1945 the British Colonial Secretary, Oliver Stanley, laid down the policies aimed at uniting Britain’s Caribbean territories. The new members of parliament had no power, as they were still accountable to the Colonial Office through the Governor. The JLP retained office in the 1949 election.
In 1951 Sir Hugh Foot arrived as Governor of Jamaica and discussions were held regarding future modification of the constitution. The PNP won the 1955 general elections. The second change to Jamaica’s constitution was in 1957. The government was a Cabinet Government, from which the Governor was removed. All the members were called ministers and Manley took the position of Chief Minister.
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