by Michael Craton and James Walvin
Publisher: University of Toronto Press, Scholarly Publishing (1 Jan. 1970)
Paperback: 378 pages
ISBN-10: 148759819X
ISBN-13: 978-1487598198
“A Jamaican Plantation: A History of Worthy Park 1670-1970” is an enlightening account of the establishment and development of Worthy Park, a Jamaican plantation town. Written by Richard Hart, a Jamaican historian, this book is an extensive examination of the economic, social, and political history of Worthy Park, which is renowned for its sugar cane production.
The book is divided into three sections: the first section provides a historical overview of Jamaica and the island’s plantation economy; the second section focuses on the establishment and development of Worthy Park, including the various economic and social factors that contributed to its success; and the final section provides an analysis of the impact of the plantation on the surrounding communities.
One of the notable aspects of this book is the depth of research that has gone into its creation. Hart has carefully examined a vast array of sources, including official records, newspapers, diaries, and oral histories, to construct a comprehensive history of the plantation. The book is also well-written, with clear and concise prose that makes it accessible to a broad audience.
Hart’s analysis of the economic, social, and political factors that contributed to Worthy Park’s success is particularly compelling. He provides a nuanced account of the plantation’s evolution, highlighting the ways in which changes in the global economy, technological advances, and the emergence of new markets impacted the plantation’s fortunes. The book also sheds light on the experiences of the workers on the plantation, providing a sobering account of the harsh realities of life on a Jamaican sugar plantation.
Overall, “A Jamaican Plantation: A History of Worthy Park 1670-1970” is a meticulously researched and engagingly written book that provides a fascinating insight into the history of Jamaica’s plantation economy. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of the Caribbean, the impact of colonialism, and the evolution of global capitalism.