The labyrinth of caves and passageways beneath what is now the Xtabi Hotel in Negril are one of the first known settlements of Ciboney Indians in Jamaica.

In the wake of these riots, the legislature passed legislation for universal adult suffrage in 1944, as well as a new constitution, which was approved by the Crown.

The two national heroes, Sir Alexander Bustamante and Norman Washington Manley, emerged as political leaders during this time.

Westmoreland has an area of 807 square kilometres (312 sq mi), making it Jamaica's eighth-largest parish.

The marsh serves as a natural and unique sanctuary for a wide variety of Jamaican wildlife and birds.

The Cabaritta River, which is 39.7 km long, drains the George's Plain and can accommodate ships weighing up to eight tons.

Other rivers include the Negril, New Savanna, Morgan's, Gut, Smithfield, Bowens, Bluefields, Robins, Roaring, Great and Dean.

As a result of the fertile plains, the parish thrives on agriculture, mainly sugarcane, which offers direct employment.

Other agricultural products include bananas, coffee, ginger, cocoa, pimento, honey, rice, and breadfruit.

Pastoralism is also practised; the rearing of cattle, horses, and mules, as well as fishing—there are 19 fishing beaches with over 90 boats engaged in the industry.