1963: The open-cast bauxite mining operation in progress to supply Alcan Jamaica Limited's alumina plant, Kirkvine Works.

1962-2007: 45 years of nationhood

Every day until August 6, The Gleaner looks back at significant milestones that have helped to shape the nation. Don't miss this nostalgic journey.

A Production levy and a new rate of royalty on bauxite and alumina were imposed by Government for an estimated yield of $177 million following the failure of last-minute efforts to reach agreement with the bauxite companies operating in Jamaica.

In announcing the imposition of this levy, Prime Minister Michael Manley pointed out that all the companies together held under lease or ownership some 1.5 billion tonnes of bauxite reserve. At the then current rates of extraction, the stock of reserves would be entirely depleted in about 100 years and the Government took the view that the needs for economic development were too urgent to wait for such a long period to secure addition to income and employment from these reserves.

Also significant in 1974 was the opening of the National Gallery, the island's largest repository of art and artefacts. American pop star Michael Jackson and his brothers performed in Jamaica at the National Stadium in 1975.

1974: A section of the large crowd which turned out at Devon House for the official opening of the National Gallery of Jamaica. The group included artists whose works were on display at the Gallery.

1975: Michael Jackson (left) of the Jackson Five brothers performing at the National Stadium. Second left is Tito, while Jackie (right) and Marlon (second right) get groovin'. Randy is at extreme left.