AS WE CONTINUE our presentation of the contribution of black people in this month we designate as Black History Month, I will focus mainly on schoolchildren over the next two weeks. I do this by way of a two quizzes that can be used in schools to sensitise our students. Of course, you adults can participate.
The quizzes have been structured in three areas: local, regional and international. In each case, an outstanding black man is featured in his or her area of success.
I was an entertainer and the creator of a local type of music. I died in a tragic car accident while in my prime.
I am a proud son of the country who also became a war hero. I was a lawyer and a National Hero. Some even call me Father of the independent nation.
Parkinson School was my home. It is the place that took me to the top of my chosen field that is all about discipline and protecting our country.
There is nothing on a cricket field that I could not do. I did it all and in different parts of the world to the point where some call me the greatest ever, and now I am a hero at home.
I hate cold water and that is why solar drives me. I am the pioneer here in Bim that makes sure you can have a hot bath in the morning or at night.
The Caribbean meant much to me, but my country, of which I was Prime Minister, meant even more. Some called me The Doc and I am known to have said: “One from ten leaves nought.”
I was born in Grenada but lived most of my life in Trinidad. Some call me “The Birdie” and others call me the king of my chosen profession.
Very few people accept it but I was born in Cat Island in The Bahamas. I made acting my profession and even received a gift from my movie students as they said: To Sir With Love.
As a Jamaican, I earned the title as being the pioneer of the “Back to Africa” movement. They made me a national hero and was seen as a mentor for many.
Cricket was the drive of my life. Give me a bat and I was at my best. No one in history has made more runs at one time in a Test innings or in a first class innings.
My performance made these the great Olympics. The Chancellor was driven to anger because I was a black man winning gold and with records. His racism was trumped by my excellence. We owe him nothing.
I was never a woman of wealth or privilege, so I travelled by bus. Sometimes you are just too tired to move and you simply take a stand. I was not going to give up my seat to stand or to push to the back of any bus.
I was big, strong and without fear. I did not disappoint my fans and became the first black heavyweight boxing champion of the world.
I am an African who fought bravely for my country’s freedom. I was its first prime minister and president. The airport, the main street, two universities and the main hospital are all named after me. My picture adorns our currency. There is a statue of me in the main city and the country’s name also comes from part of mine.
Do your research, complete the quiz and submit your answers to the email attached below. The first 15 and under as well as the first over 15 to submit the correct answers in each of the two quizzes will win an attractive technology prize.
Jeff Broomes is an experienced educator, principal and community organiser who also served as vice-president of the BCA and director of the WICB. Email [email protected]
