Overview

In a compelling story of the installation and operation of U.S. bases in the Caribbean colony of Trinidad during World War II, Harvey Neptune examines how the people of this British island contended with the colossal force of American empire-building at a critical time in the island's history. The U.S. military occupation between 1941 and 1947 came at the same time that Trinidadian nationalist politics sought to project an image of a distinct, independent, and particularly un-British cultural landscape. The American intervention, Neptune shows, contributed to a tempestuous scene as Trinidadians deliberately engaged Yankee personnel, paychecks, and practices flooding the island. He explores the military-based economy, relationships between U.S. servicemen and Trinidadian women, and the influence of American culture on local music (especially calypso), fashion, labor practices, and everyday racial politics. Tracing the debates about change among ordinary and privileged Trinidadians, he argues that it was the poor, the women, and the youth who found the most utility in and moved most avidly to make something new out of the American presence. Neptune also places this history of Trinidad's modern times into a wider Caribbean and Latin American perspective, highlighting how Caribbean peoples sometimes wield ""America"" and ""American ways"" as part of their localized struggles.

Full Product Details

9780807830802

Table of Contents

Reviews

This book on Trinidad and Tobago's historical development fills the gaps and seeks to correct the narrative in Eric William's History of the People of Trinidad and Tobago . . . . Perhaps the most significant contribution the book makes is that it puts William's epic battle for Chaguaramus into context, and it challenges his interpretation of that pivotal interlude in Trinidad's history. - New West Indian Guide

This book on Trinidad and Tobago's historical development fills the gaps and seeks to correct the narrative in Eric William's History of the People of Trinidad and Tobago . . . . Perhaps the most significant contribution the book makes is that it puts William's epic battle for Chaguaramus into context, and it challenges his interpretation of that pivotal interlude in Trinidad's history. <br> - New West Indian Guide

This richly textured study of the forgotten American occupation of Trinidad during World War II packs a powerful wallop. . . . Caliban and the Yankees brims with new ideas for studying the American Century as it was lived in the interstices of empire.<br>--Gil Joseph, Yale University

Author Information

HARVEY R. NEPTUNE is assistant professor of history at Temple University.

Tab Content 6

Customer Reviews

Recent Reviews

Countries Available