Was Rev Claudius Henry a a CIA agent or Rasta revolutionary?

Rev. Claudius Henry: A Complex Figure in Jamaican HistoryShow more

Rev. Claudius Henry, born in Jamaica in 1912, was a multifaceted figure whose life and actions continue to stir debate and intrigue. While some saw him as a spiritual leader and advocate for the rights of the oppressed, others viewed him with suspicion due to his controversial beliefs and actions.

**Early Life and Spiritual Journey:** Rev. Claudius Henry's early life is shrouded in relative obscurity. He found his calling as a preacher and founded the Ethiopian Salvation Society in Jamaica in the 1950s. His teachings were a unique blend of elements from Christianity and Rastafarianism, emphasizing the divinity of Emperor Haile Selassie I of Ethiopia.

**A Controversial Advocate:** Rev. Henry's religious teachings were often accompanied by a fervent call for social and political change in Jamaica. He openly criticized what he saw as a corrupt and oppressive Jamaican government. In 1960, his advocacy for the overthrow of the government led to his arrest and charges of sedition.

**The Letter to Cuba:** One of the most contentious aspects of Rev. Henry's life was his alleged communication with the Cuban government, seeking assistance in his mission to overthrow the Jamaican government. This letter to Cuba became a focal point of suspicion and controversy, with some speculating about his possible ties to intelligence agencies like the CIA. However, concrete evidence supporting such claims remains elusive.

**Incarceration and Rescue Attempt:** Rev. Claudius Henry's arrest and imprisonment in 1960 marked a turning point in his life. His son, Leonard Percival Howell Jr., made headlines when he attempted to break his father out of jail. This daring plot attracted both attention and controversy, highlighting the passionate support that some held for Claudius Henry.

**Impact on Rastafarianism:** It is important to note that Rev. Henry's actions had a significant and negative impact on the broader Rastafarian community in Jamaica. The killing of the Royal Hampshire guards in 1960, which was linked to Rastafarians and their perceived association with Henry's teachings, led to increased scrutiny, stigmatization, and persecution of Rastas across the country.

**Legacy and Debates:** Rev. Claudius Henry's life remains a complex and enigmatic chapter in Jamaican history. His teachings, controversies, and the unanswered questions surrounding his activities continue to intrigue scholars and those interested in the intricate tapestry of Jamaican religious and political movements.

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