"Father"Jim Jones

Exactly 35 years ago today, over 900 Americans and a handful of Guyanese died by murder-suicide in Region 1, Guyana.

They were members of the People's Temple headed by Rev Jim Jones whom they had to address as "Father."

The tragedy took place at the Port Kaituma airstrip and Jonestown nearby, where Rev Jones' commune was located.

Newspapers, TV and radio all over the world broadcast news of the event, putting small and poor Guyana in the unwanted spotlight.

The Jonestown massacre has important lessons for mankind, 35 years after.

A good number of books have been written on the subject. The Internet provides ample information too.

Young Guyanese are urged to check out these resources to learn more about a state within a state in Guyana, how it came into being and how it self-destructed.

For the older folks, where were you on the evening of Saturday November 18, 1978? I was dining at National Restaurant on Robb Street, G/town, eating a mixed fried rice special and drinking a Banks beer.