Did The CIA Really Try To Kill Bob Marley?
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Bob Marley used his influence to spread messages of peace, love, and rebellion, even when his life was on the line.
In 1976, amid political turmoil in Jamaica between the CIA-backed Jamaican Labour Party and the People’s National Party, Marley found himself at the epicenter. Both parties sought his support, prompting him to remain neutral during the elections. However, this decision did not shield him from the crossfire.
Having such a great influence on the public, Marley had enemies in high places. On December 3rd, 1976, he was targeted by seven gunmen believed to be linked to a far-right political party.
Despite being wounded two days before a concert, Marley refused to back down, giving an impressive 90-minute performance for 50,000 fans, showing his resilience in tough times.
As Marley sang, “Get up, stand up, stand up for your rights,” he wasn’t just urging action; he was boldly proclaiming his own determination not to be silenced.
Marley’s wife was the first target. A gunman from the passenger seat fired at her, grazing her scalp and leaving her bloodied but alive.
Following the shooting, as per reports, the gunmen went back to Tivoli Gardens, a neighborhood aligned with the JLP and known as the base of the infamous Shower Posse.
The PNP cleverly aligned the election dates with the Smile Jamaica concert, transforming it into a government rally—this upset Marley, who had only agreed to the concert under the condition of no political interference.
Taylor mentioned, before one of the shooters was killed, he claimed the CIA had recruited them to assassinate Marley in exchange for cocaine and guns.
Following the incident, Marley moved to England, spending two years in self-imposed exile, where he recorded his magnum opus ‘Exodus.’
The shooting not only influenced Marley creatively but also prompted a shift in his lyrical focus. Marley chose to move away from violent themes, focusing on enduring principles and strength from his faith in Jah.
In 1978, Marley returned to Jamaica, participating in the One Love Peace Concert. He invited political rivals Michael Manley and Edward Seaga on stage, urging them to shake hands and symbolize unity.
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Comments
Kelly Robert Smith —
After watching the documentary MARLEY I
learned so much about this great man.I truly
believe the CIA was behind the botched assassination of Bob Marley.He wrote from his
heart thats why so many people connect with his
music.To come out of the Jamaican ghetto and
be a national Super Star.RIP BOB