Ever wondered how some indigenous groups in the Caribbean not only survived the 'discovery' era but thrived into today? The Kalinago of Dominica did just that, turning the tide against overwhelming odds. This book, Resistance, Refuge, Revival, pulls back the curtain on their story with fresh insights and meticulous research.
When European adventurers arrived, many Caribbean First Peoples vanished within decades—diseases, wars, enslavement. Not the Kalinago. They fought back fiercely, then smartly retreated to mountainous strongholds in Dominica, preserving their way of life. It's a tale of grit, adaptation, and identity shifts that kept their flame alive.
Author dives deep into archives and oral histories, mapping the Kalinago's evolution. Early defiance gave way to tactical alliances and cultural blending, leading to a 21st-century revival. Think vibrant festivals, language reclamation, and community-led conservation—real, tangible comebacks you can witness today on the island.
In our era of climate crises and cultural erosion, the Kalinago story offers lessons in resilience. It's not just history; it's a blueprint for indigenous survival amid 'anthropocene' pressures, as noted by Caribbean Beat Magazine. Shortlisted for the 2025 OCM Bocas Prize, it's accessible yet scholarly—perfect for history buffs, travelers to Dominica, or anyone pondering human endurance.
Picture curling up with this paperback, flipping through maps of Kalinago territories, feeling the humid Caribbean air in descriptions of their refuges. Whether you're planning a trip to Dominica's Kalinago Territory or just love untold histories, it sparks that 'aha' moment about overlooked heroes. Grab it when it drops April 3, 2025, and join the conversation on Caribbean indigenous legacies.
