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A review by tawallah
The Sugar Barons by Matthew Parker
3.0
This book has been an emotional experience. This well researched book chronicles the rise and fall of the West Indian planter. A small number of unremarkable men rose to prominence in the 15- 18th century. It looks at major family based in Barbados, Jamaica and eastern America. Each island has a less than stellar beginning, odds are against the planter. Only the resourceful succeed. With success, the ripple effect of slavery and its effect on both the planters and slaves is excellently related. The effect on the world is huge, and sets the stage for understanding oil moguls of today. But riches never last.
My only grouse with this book, is the scope presented is huge. There are numerous key military battles described here. So if military battles are outside your comfort zone, then it will get boring quickly. The author tends to use Old English often for authenticity, but not easy to read.
Despite my shame, anger, bewilderment, horror with the facts portrayed, I am going to get my own copy to slowly peruse again. It is quite a dense read but necessary for knowing the history of my island.
My only grouse with this book, is the scope presented is huge. There are numerous key military battles described here. So if military battles are outside your comfort zone, then it will get boring quickly. The author tends to use Old English often for authenticity, but not easy to read.
Despite my shame, anger, bewilderment, horror with the facts portrayed, I am going to get my own copy to slowly peruse again. It is quite a dense read but necessary for knowing the history of my island.