Jamaica’s impact on the world in various fields throughout history is highly recognised. This was again reaffirmed as noted Human Rights Activist Marcus Garvey, Reggae Music legends Bob Marley and Peter Tosh, as well as Sprint King Usain Bolt, were named among the most influential Black People Ever in the world.
The recently compiled list by Global Statistics, which included the likes of Nelson Mandela, Mansu Musa, Hailey Saleissei, among others, saw the four Jamaicans ranked among the 50 standout black persons who’ve significantly impacted the world in and beyond their respective disciplines across various eras in history.
Jamaica’s first National Hero, the Right Excellent Marcus Mosiah Garvey, was the highest-ranked Jamaican on the list, coming at number eight. Garvey, of course, known for his erudite persona and entrepreneurial acumen, is also noted for his message of Black enterprise, self-employment and reliance of the black race during the period of oppression. The message, which would later serve as the bedrock of inspiration for fellow global activist Malcom X and Martin Luther King Jr, both of whom are also named.
Marley was next up on the list at 19 with a musical message of rights and freedom and self-identity, which reverberates across the world to this day and still holds a growing appeal of One Love and Unity and Equality, which ideal refelcts the Jamaican experience.
Fellow Reggae Great Tosh, with his more radical approach in advocating for better fair treatment, upliftment of the oppressed and free expressions, was recognised for his impact on conscious movement on a large scale, also decades following his passing.
In terms of Living legends of today, hardly anyone can compete or argue the massive global influence of Sprint Great Usain Bolt, who comes in at no.22. His unprecedented record-breaking dominance on the track, has single-handedly reshaped the definition of high performance at an elite level. Paired with his magnetic personality, his fan-friendly aura has made him an international idol outside of the sporting world, inspiring a new generation of excellence while captivating current aspirants of greatness.
