It is the oldest continuously published newspaper in the English-speaking Caribbean, and the most widely circulated newspaper in Jamaica. The Gleaner was founded in 1834 by Joshua de Cordova and was originally known as The Weekly Gleaner. In 1844, it changed its name to The Gleaner and became a daily newspaper.
The Jamaica Gleaner has been instrumental in shaping public opinion in Jamaica, and has played a significant role in the country's history. The Gleaner was a strong supporter of the independence movement, and its coverage of the 1938 riots helped to bring the issue of Jamaican self-determination to the attention of the international community. The Gleaner also played an important role in the campaign for women's suffrage, and its coverage of the 1944 suffrage campaign helped to bring about universal adult suffrage in Jamaica.
In addition to its news coverage, the Jamaica Gleaner is also known for its sports coverage, its entertainment section, and its editorial cartoons. The Gleaner's sports section is the most comprehensive sports coverage in Jamaica, and its entertainment section provides readers with the latest news on music, movies, and other forms of entertainment. The Gleaner's editorial cartoons are also widely read, and they provide commentary on current events and social trends.
The Jamaica Gleaner is a vital part of Jamaican culture, and it continues to be a leading source of news and information for Jamaicans around the world.