Origins and Ideological Roots of the New Jewel Movement

Amidst the socio-economic hardships and colonial aftermath that shaped much of the Caribbean in the 1970s, Grenada witnessed the emergence of a transformative political force—the New Jewel Movement (NJM). This movement arose as a response to entrenched inequalities and sought to redefine Grenadian society through radical reforms. Drawing inspiration from Marxist-Leninist doctrines combined with Pan-African ideals, NJM aimed to mobilize ordinary citizens toward a vision centered on social equity, national sovereignty, and resistance against foreign domination.

The NJM’s core principles emphasized:

• Equitable Resource Distribution: Advocating for land reform and fair allocation of wealth.
• Sovereignty and Self-Determination: Upholding Grenada’s autonomy free from external interference.
• Anti-Imperialist Stance: Opposing neocolonial influences shaping regional politics.

This ideological framework translated into policies promoting grassroots participation in governance. The movement prioritized expanding educational opportunities—especially literacy programs—and fostering economic self-reliance through agricultural reforms.Internationally, NJM aligned itself with other leftist governments during an era marked by Cold War tensions, seeking solidarity among nations pursuing similar revolutionary goals.