In the former colonies of the British Empire, slavery was officially abolished on August 1st, 1834. But only children under the age of six were actually released from slavery. Former slaves were given status as apprentices, which meant they still served their former owners for a designated period of time. It wasn’t until August 1st, 1840 that all types of apprentices were granted full freedom. In Jamaica, like in many British colonies, on July 31st, slaves, anticipating their freedom, gathered together awaiting the stroke of midnight to celebrate a new day, a new beginning. Now, just as then, bells ring, drums sound and people dance. And the Emancipation Proclamation is reread.
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