Jamaica (P 71e) - 10 Dollars (1994) - UNC

Personality on the banknote:

George William Gordon (c. 1820 - 23 October 1865) was a major figure in Jamaican history, known as a businessman, politician and national hero. He was born in the Mavis Bank area of the St. Andrew District as the illegitimate son of Scottish planter Joseph Gordon and his black slave Ann Rattray. Despite his mixed ancestry and initial limitations, Gordon became a successful businessman and prominent landowner in the St. Thomas area.

He was originally a member of the Anglican Church, but later converted to the Baptists and became an active preacher. He financed the construction of several churches, and contributed to the spread of Christianity among the Jamaican population.

In politics, Gordon became known as a vocal critic of the colonial government and Governor Edward Eyre. As a member of the Jamaican legislature, he represented the interests of the poor and oppressed, often criticizing injustices and calling for reform.

His activism culminated during the Morant Bay Rebellion in October 1865, when poor residents revolted against social and economic injustice. Although there is no evidence of his direct involvement in the uprising, Gordon was arrested, sentenced under martial law and executed by hanging on 23 October 1865.

Gordon's death sparked international outrage and led to the administration of significant change in colonial Jamaica. In 1969, he was posthumously declared a national hero of Jamaica for his tireless pursuit of justice and equality.