In-Text 

Jamaican immigrants are the focus of Colonization In Reverse. Unsurprisingly, Jamaica is referenced multiple times throughout the 11 stanza poem: “By de hundred, by de toucan / From country an af from town, / By de ship=load, by de plane-load / Jamaica is Englan bound / Dem a pour out a Jamaica / What an islan!” 

Background 

Jamaica was principally inhabited by the Taíno people, but became subject to Spanish rule following the expeditions of Christoper Columbus. The indigenous population was quickly killed, died from disease, or was enslaved. In 1655, the island was conquered by England who renamed it Jamaica. Under English rule, Jamaica became a significant exporter of sugar. Sugar plantations were operated by African slaves until 1838 when they were emancipated. Finally, the island gained its independence from the United Kingdom in August of 1962.