1974: Prime Minister the Hon. Michael Manley (centre) is escorted on a tour of the Cookhorn Community Centre. Constructed by citizens from the area, the centre contains a basic school, woodwork and craft workshops.

1962-2007: 45 years of nationhood

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Former Prime Minister of Jamaica (1972 to 1980 and 1989 to 1992) and former president of the People's National Party (1969 to 1992) Michael Manley died in his 73rd year at his home. He had been ailing with prostate cancer for some time and in the latter stage was confined to his bed. Members of his family and close friends - including former Prime Minister Hugh Shearer - visited him regularly, some playing bridge with him.

Manley was born on December 19, 1924, the second son of Norman and Edna Manley. His father was an outstanding lawyer who founded the People's National Party in 1938, and was later named a National Hero of Jamaica. His mother was an artist and sculptress.

Young Manley

1972: Prime Minister Michael Manley pictured at his desk in his East Race Course office after he made an official tour of the building for thefirst time since he was sworn in as Prime Minister.

The young Manley attended Jamaica College and was a brilliant student and athlete at the London School of Economics. He got involved in the trade union movement and became the island supervisor at the National Workers' Union, and later president. He entered elective politics in 1967 and two years later succeeded his father as president of the PNP.

He wrote several books, including A History of West Indies Cricket. His hobbies were listening to music, sports, jogging, coffee farming and playing bridge.

1974: Prime Minister Michael Manley makes friends with a young pupil at the Jamaica House Basic School. - file