Jamaica gained its independence from the United Kingdom on 6th August 1962, following more than 300 years under British control.
After the end of World War II, the decolonisation movement began, with local politicians in Jamaica and in the British Empire transitioning their crown colonies into independent states.
After Norman Manley was elected to the post of Chief Minister in 1955, the process of decolonisation was made even quicker, especially with his constitutional amendments that he enacted that allowed for greater home rule and established the basis for a cabinet of ministers of ministers under a Prime Minister of Jamaica.
On 19th July 1962, the Parliament of the United Kingdom passed the Jamaica Independence Act, granting independence effective of 6th August, establishing the role of the Governor General of Jamaica and enshrining the role of Head of State for Queen Elizabeth II.
