Quote Originally Posted by Rob View Post
To set the story straight, as quoted in the Observer, "THE political violence that haunted the 1980 general election has evaporated."

What you are referring to happened 35 years ago. Reagan was the President of the USA and MTV did not exist yet. It is history, but since it has no impact at all on current conditions, I am not sure how "important" getting acquainted with it is.

http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/...hanged-Jamaica

And out of curiosity, what is the date on that High Times article? When cocaine first hit the island in the 80's - early 90's, as it did in America in the 70's and 80's, it did have its usual devastating impact on some. But Jamaicans quickly learned from their addicted friends who became what was called a "stockie" that cocaine (and crack) was not the way to live.
1980 is a long time ago, Rob. I didn't mean to imply that things were the same these days.

As I recall, the HT article was from late '83/early '84 and laments the growing impact of coke due to tourists willing to purchase. I made my first trip in March '84 and had regular offers to sell us some. By '88, the impact was jaw dropping. In '89 at a Dennis Brown concert I saw a dude with a large entourage give a look and out would pop a stuffed cloth bag, quick scoop with his over sized, gold spoon around his neck, snort, snort and it was over in under 10 seconds. Crack was also readily available. I've heard Jamaicans lament that their yard plans were being stolen because they'd fetch enough for a hit. Seems to be tame these day in comparison.