Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) Caribbean History Practice Exam

The Morant Bay Rebellion in 1865 was a significant uprising in Jamaica, driven by widespread discontent over social and economic injustices faced by the Black population, particularly in the wake of the abolition of slavery. The rebellion highlighted the failures of the colonial government to address the needs and grievances of the formerly enslaved population.

In response to the rebellion, the British government imposed direct rule over Jamaica, effectively reducing the power of local assembly and governance. This shift to direct rule meant that decisions regarding the governance of the colony would be made by appointed officials from Britain, rather than local representatives. This move was intended to restore order and stability, and to exert tighter control over the colony in the aftermath of the upheaval.

The other choices, such as increased land reform, establishment of new colonies, and abolition of slavery, either did not occur as a direct consequence of the rebellion or were already established prior to it. In essence, the direct result of the Morant Bay Rebellion was a significant change in the governance of Jamaica, leading to a more authoritarian and centrally controlled colonial administration.