Jamaica

Kingston is the capital of Jamaica: it’s the country’s largest city, the seat of Parliament and most government ministries, and its main economic and cultural hub. Located on the southeastern coast with a deep natural harbor, Kingston anchors national transportation, finance, and media. Historically, Kingston grew rapidly after the 1692 earthquake devastated nearby Port Royal; it replaced Spanish Town as the capital in 1872. Today it’s famous for its reggae heritage—the Bob Marley Museum is there—and for being the heart of Jamaican politics and commerce. Memory tip: “King-ston” is where the government (the “king’s” business) is done—so Kingston is the capital.