Jan RogozińskiBesprekingen

Something of a mixed bag. The worst part about the book is the very poor quality of the reproduction used for the illustrations; many are very dark, and very difficult to read. Additionally, the font size used for the entries is very small and is not a particularly easy font on the eyes. Some of the entries are interesting and very good, while others are very brief and not all that informative. It could have used a number of maps, as well. I don't think I could honestly recommend this book; this, in spite of the fact that Wordsworth does publish a number of other good titles.½

What I like most about this book is the thorough coverage of the interaction between aboriginal and various European peoples. Rogozinski describes the plight of the Awawak and Carrib, the original discovery and settlement by Spain, and the continuous shifts in power that ensued over the following four hundred years. Covering that many islands over such a time period makes this a survey course. There were dozens of dictators that came and went, too often in extreme cycles of grabbing power only to be eventually deposed. Some of the larger islands with resources were able to maintain long periods of authoritarian or socialist rule. Many of the smaller islands subsisted on basic agriculture, tourism, and banking.

Describing the great earthquake of 1692 that sunk Port Royal, Jamaica as "a fitting punishment for the new Sodom" doesn't seem quite like an objective history...what's wrong with whoring and pirates?Still...I did get to learn about the Alco, small Arawak dogs that couldn't bark.

This is a terriffic book by a very knowledgable author. Packed with information it's a must have for anyone who has an interest in the subject or would like to know about it.½

This is a great book, apparently first published for Facts on File, presumably aiming at the library market. Wordsworth subsequently published a paperback edition, which I picked up for a few books—an amazing deal. It's spotty on Greek and Roman piracy, but this is hardly surprising.