The Black History Truth - Jamaica

Reviewed by Astrid Lustulin for Readers' Favourite:

It is time to learn the stories of some nations in a more equitable way - not from the point of view of the conquerors but of the oppressed. This is why books like The Black History Truth: Jamaica by Pamela Gayle arouse great interest in a conscious reader. This book tells the story of 'The Sharpest Thorn in Britain's Caribbean Colonies,' focusing on the 16th to 19th centuries. Through extensive use of sources and images, Gayle sheds light on the injustices perpetrated by the British and analyses the stigmatization of Eurocentric historiography, which portrayed unfavourable behaviours and customs of groups of people it could not understand.

Although the subject is complex, this book is clear and precise. Gayle tackles so many topics that she arouses the admiration of readers with her profound knowledge of Jamaica. She is very direct when she blames the British, but the evidence she brings is overwhelming. In The Black History Truth: Jamaica, you will not only find descriptions of struggles and injustices but also valuable information on local heroes and heroines, such as Nana Yaa Asantewaa and Queen Nanny, as well as customs that Europeans have misunderstood. Aft er reading this book, readers will understand why Jamaica was actually (as the subtitle describes it) "the sharpest thorn in Britain's Caribbean Colonies." I recommend this book to all those who want to see the history of humanity from a new perspective.

Auteur

Pamela Gayle was born in South London, England, United Kingdom, from Jamaican parents. Pamela has taught in primary schools for over 25 years, with additional responsibilities as Black History Manager. Pamela's passion is travelling to sites of Black interest, history, and culture, and learning about the Black history that she was never taught at school. She has indulged her wandering spirit by participating in various teacher exchange schemes abroad. Pamela still lives in South London with her adult son. She would love a cat, but travels too much to look after one. Cycling, chocolate, reggae, salsa and yoga, are her hobbies, but not at the same time - and not necessarily in that order!