Jewish Families in the Caribbean

by: Denise N. Fyffe

The story of Jewish families in the Caribbean is one of quiet endurance, deep faith, and remarkable adaptation. Their presence in Jamaica and across the region stretches back nearly five centuries, beginning during one of the darkest periods in European history—the Spanish Inquisition.

Around 1530, Jews fleeing persecution, torture, and forced conversion sought refuge wherever they could find it. Many of them found their way to the Caribbean, including Jamaica, hoping for a place where they could live without fear and practice their faith in peace.

The first Jewish arrivals were primarily Sephardic Jews from Spain and Portugal. Some had even traveled with Christopher Columbus, while others later assisted British forces in capturing Jamaica from the Spanish. Under Spanish rule, Jews were forced to live in secrecy, practicing their faith behind closed doors and hiding their identity to avoid punishment.

But when the English took control of Jamaica in 1655, everything changed.

For the first time, Jews were allowed to worship openly, build synagogues, and establish communities rooted in their traditions. This shift marked the beginning of a vibrant Jewish presence on the island.

By 1700, the Jewish community had grown significantly. Historical records note that around 400 Jews lived in Jamaica at that time, owning several plantations and participating actively in commerce. By 1720, Jews made up nearly 18 percent of Kingston’s population—a remarkable figure that speaks to their early influence on the island’s economic and social life. Their contributions were not limited to business; they helped shape the cultural and civic landscape of Jamaica during its formative years.

If you are ready to learn more about the Caribbean family, get copies from The Family Book Series. Whether you are raising children, blending families, healing generational patterns, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of the people you love, this series provides the wisdom and perspective to support you on the journey.

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About the writer:

For over 20 years, Denise N. Fyffe experience spanned education, IT, publishing, and ministry leadership. Her career has been defined by a deep commitment to empowering others through education & transformational resources. As Founder of Revealing the Christian Life Ministry, Academy and Foundation, she has built an international ministry that reaches tens of thousands of people annually across over 200+ countries.

She has also authored and published 100+ books (fiction & non-fiction). This also led to her work as a content editor & publisher. Moreover, Denise enjoys traveling, gardening, volunteering or coaching aspiring writers. As one of the board members of the Jamaica Writers Society, she is passionate about sharing her culture & progressing the cause of writers.