New Black global nonfiction about Haiti, the Caribbean
Historical nonfiction has evolved greatly over the last decade. Now, Black historical figures and regions are being written about in unique, experiential, and esoteric ways. Postmodern global concerns like climate change, and deeper and possibly more empathetic views of behavior such as disloyalty and blind power, are outlined and creatively examined in new works: "The First and Last King of Haiti: The Rise and Fall of Henry Christophe" by Marlene Daut and "Dark Laboratory: On Columbus, the Caribbean, and the Origins of the Climate Crisis" by Tao Leigh Goffe.
The First and Last King of Haiti: The Rise and Fall of Henry Christophe"
by Marlene Daut
Marlene Daut offers an essential biography that explores the tumultuous life of one of the most controversial figures in the history of the Americas in "The First and Last King of Haiti: The Rise and Fall of Henry Christophe."
Christophe's journey from enslaved child in Grenada to self-proclaimed king of Haiti is a tale of rebellion, betrayal, and, ultimately, tragedy, making it a riveting account of both personal and political turmoil. He fought for Napoleon against the very people he had once sought to liberate, which positions him as both a traitor and a complex figure whose motivations remain debated. Daut meticulously examines these contradictions, challenging readers to understand the multifaceted nature of Christophe's character and the choices he made in the context of the political landscape of his time.
The biography raises critical questions about loyalty, betrayal, and the price of power. Why did Christophe betray Toussaint Louverture, and how did these betrayals affect the fabric of Haitian society? Daut navigates these inquiries with nuance, revealing how personal ambitions intertwined with the broader geopolitical struggles of the era.
Dark Laboratory: On Columbus, the Caribbean, and the Origins of the Climate Crisis" by Tao Leigh Goffe
In "Dark Laboratory: On Columbus, the Caribbean, and the Origins of the Climate Crisis," Tao Leigh Goffe presents a powerful and multifaceted exploration of the Caribbean, challenging conventional narratives that often romanticize the region as a paradise untouched by the forces of exploitation. This groundbreaking work invites readers to delve into the shadows behind the idyllic façade, revealing the profound historical and ongoing impact of colonialism, environmental degradation, and racial injustice.
In her narrative, Goffe not only reveals the profound violence that has shaped the Caribbean but also posits the region as a source of solutions for the crises we face today. Drawing from the ecological wisdom of the islands, she advocates for a reimagining of our relationship with the environment—one that respects Indigenous knowledge and prioritizes sustainable practices. This vision for renewal is not merely theoretical; it serves as a call to action for addressing the dual apocalypses of racism and climate change.
This approach not only humanizes the historical accounts of colonization and exploitation; it also underscores the lasting legacies of these injustices. The reader is compelled to confront the stark realities faced by the Caribbean's Indigenous peoples, enslaved Africans, and indentured laborers, whose work transformed the islands into sources of immense wealth for Western powers. She draws connections between the colonial past and contemporary issues such as climate change, highlighting how colonial practices set the stage for today's environmental crises.
