Borderwaters: Amid the Archipelagic States of America

The United States is often described as a continental country, but since the late twentieth century, it has claimed more water space than land space and borders twenty-one countries, particularly in the Pacific and Caribbean archipelagoes. In his book "Borderwaters," Brian Russell Roberts challenges the continental national mythologies and presents an alternative image of the United States as an archipelagic nation. He uses literature, visual art, and other expressive forms to remap US geography and discuss US culture.

Format: Hardback
Length: 392 pages
Publication date: 28 May 2021
Publisher: Duke University Press

The conventional narrative portrays the United States as a continental nation, bordered by Canada and Mexico. However, a remarkable shift has occurred since the late twentieth century, with the United States claiming a greater expanse of water than land. In fact, it surpasses the water space of many other countries globally. This watery version of the United States extends its borders to twenty-one countries, particularly in the Pacific and Caribbean archipelagoes. In his book "Borderwaters," Brian Russell Roberts challenges the prevailing continental national mythologies and presents a fresh perspective on the United States. Roberts draws upon a diverse range of literature, visual art, and expressive forms, including works by Mark Twain, Zora Neale Hurston, Indigenous testimonies against nuclear testing, and the visual representations of Miguel Covarrubias. Through these diverse sources, Roberts remaps both the fundamental geography of the United States and the foundations of how we discuss its culture.

He emphasizes the archipelagic nature of the United States, highlighting its numerous islands and coastal regions. Roberts challenges the notion of a unified and contiguous landmass, instead presenting a fragmented and interconnected landscape. He explores the historical and cultural significance of water in shaping the United States, from its maritime traditions to its role in shaping its political boundaries and economic development. Roberts also examines the impact of globalization on the United States' maritime borders and the challenges posed by climate change and resource depletion in the Pacific and Caribbean regions.

"Borderwaters" offers a thought-provoking exploration of the United States' identity and place in the world. By challenging the conventional narratives and presenting a new perspective on the country's geography and culture, Roberts encourages readers to reevaluate their understanding of the United States and its role in global affairs. This book is a valuable contribution to the field of geography, cultural studies, and American studies, and will interest scholars, policymakers, and anyone interested in understanding the complex and evolving nature of the United States.

Weight: 658g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781478010739