Jamaica gained its Independence on August 6, 1962 with much fanfare and celebration across the island. The Gleaner was there to capture all the excitement. Below is an excerpt of the article that was published on August 8, 1962, documenting the momentous occasion.

With pomp and ceremony, and in an atmosphere of general rejoicing all over the country, Jamaica became an independent nation at midnight Sunday.

More than 20,000 people crowded the National Stadium Sunday night to see the Union Jack hauled down and the Jamaica, national flag hoisted in its place to the top of the flagstaff while eager voices sang the national anthem.

The flag-raising ceremony was duplicated in towns and villages all over Jamaica, as well as in galore, brought Jamaicans of all Jamaican communities in England and the United States and in various communities in the Western Hemisphere.

Centre of the ceremonies was Her Royal Highness Princess Margaret, representing her sister, the Queen. Apart from gracing all the state ceremonies and less-formal occasions with her presence, the Princess declared the nation's first Parliament open at Gordon House yesterday morning.

'Out of Many'

Sharing the spotlight of attention was Sir Alexander Bustamante, who has become the first prime minister of Jamaica, and holds the portfolios of minister of external affairs and minister of defence as well, and the nation's first governor general, His Excellency Sir Kenneth Blackburne, and Lady Blackburne.

The spectacle of bonfires on the hills, fireworks at the National Stadium and other centres, dancing in the streets, donkey races, treats for schoolchildren and the aged, regattas, parties galore, brought Jamaicans of all races, classes and colours and creeds together to celebrate their independence and to symbolise the motto, 'Out of Many, One People'.