Patchwork Freedoms: Law, Slavery, and Race beyond Cuba's Plantations

In nineteenth-century Santiago de Cuba, Afro-descendant peasants forged freedom and devised their own formative path to emancipation, negotiating their freedom and land piecemeal through colonial legal frameworks. This work unearths a new history of Black rural geography and popular legalism and offers a new framework for thinking about nineteenth-century Black freedom.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 17 February 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

In the vibrant city of Santiago de Cuba, nestled in the heart of Cuba's radical cradle, a remarkable story unfolded. Afro-descendant peasants, driven by their unwavering quest for freedom, embarked on a path that would shape their own unique journey towards emancipation. Through a meticulous exploration of understudied archives, this groundbreaking work unveils a fresh perspective on Black rural geography and popular legalism, offering a novel framework for understanding nineteenth-century Black freedom.

In Santiago de Cuba, the Afro-descendant peasantries approached their struggle for rights with a distinct approach. Rather than relying solely on liberal-abolitionist ideologies, they negotiated their freedom and land piecemeal, utilizing colonial legal frameworks that accommodated local customs and the possibility of manumission. These peasants, through relentless litigation and self-purchase, gradually eroded the institution of slavery, challenging the prevailing racial systems that governed Cuba.

It is important to note that the Afro-descendant peasants of Santiago de Cuba laid the groundwork for emancipation long before the national protests for independence and island-wide emancipation that took place in 1868. Their tireless efforts, often carried out in quiet and invisible ways, laid the foundation for a future that would bring about greater freedom and equality for all.

This groundbreaking work sheds light on the complex and multifaceted history of Black rural geography and popular legalism in nineteenth-century Cuba. It challenges traditional narratives and provides a deeper understanding of the struggles and triumphs of Afro-descendant communities. By delving into understudied archives and offering a fresh perspective, this work contributes to our collective knowledge of the African diaspora and its impact on global history.

In conclusion, the story of Santiago de Cuba's Afro-descendant peasants serves as a testament to the resilience and determination of those who fought for freedom. Their innovative strategies, rooted in local customs and legal frameworks, paved the way for a new era of emancipation and laid the foundation for a more inclusive and equitable society. As we continue to explore the rich tapestry of history, it is essential to recognize the contributions of these marginalized communities and their vital role in shaping the world we live in today.

Weight: 504g
Dimension: 151 x 229 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108730808
Edition number: New ed