As Jamaica's first world heritage site, the Blue and John
Crow Mountains offer an incredibly diverse and rugged landscape which also served
as a refuge for those resisting the European colonial system, whether the
indigenous Tainos or subsequently Maroons, who were formerly enslaved peoples.
In its continuing archaeological study of the region, the
Jamaica National Heritage Trust has recently discovered a previously unknown
Maroon site, known as Quao, named after a Maroon leader who signed a peace
agreement with the British in 1739. While exploration of the site is ongoing,
evidence found so far points to sugar production and associated activities.
This will undoubtedly be an interesting story to watch to
see what other discoveries are made regarding this and other Maroon sites in
South-Eastern Jamaica.
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