On this date in 1914, Marcus Garvey’s return to Jamaica marked the beginning of a transformative period for both him and the global Black community. After his extensive travels through Central America and Europe, Garvey arrived back in Jamaica with a vision that would ignite a powerful movement. On July 19, just five days after his arrival, he founded the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA).

The UNIA aimed to uplift people of African descent worldwide, advocating for unity, pride, and self-determination. Garvey’s movement was grounded in the belief that Black people should have their own independent institutions, separate from the oppressive systems imposed by colonial powers. The UNIA grew rapidly, becoming the largest independent Black organization of its time, with millions of members spanning across the Americas, the Caribbean, and beyond.

Through his leadership and the platform provided by the UNIA, Garvey became a powerful voice for Pan-Africanism, encouraging pride in African heritage and pushing for economic and political empowerment. His vision also extended to the creation of a powerful Black nation, with the “Back to Africa” movement gaining traction as a key part of his ideology.

The UNIA’s impact reached far beyond its official activities, shaping the discourse on race, identity, and self-reliance for generations to come.