Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) Caribbean History Practice Exam

The notable cultural contribution of African heritage to Caribbean society is the creation of music styles such as reggae and calypso. These genres embody the rich musical traditions and rhythms that were brought to the Caribbean by enslaved Africans. This influence is evident in the use of percussive instruments, call-and-response patterns, and strong rhythms that characterize these music forms.

Reggae, emerging in Jamaica in the late 1960s, draws heavily from African musical elements, incorporating social and political themes, while calypso, originating from Trinidad and Tobago, features storytelling that reflects the experiences and struggles of the African diaspora in the Caribbean. These music styles not only entertain but also serve as forms of resistance and expression of cultural identity, highlighting the significant impact of African heritage on the cultural landscape of the Caribbean.

The other options focus on European or classical contributions that do not stem from African heritage. For instance, classical music traditions and European theatrical arts primarily reflect Western influences, while the promotion of Western philosophical ideas does not relate to the contributions of African culture in the Caribbean.