Port Cities of the Atlantic World: Sea-Facing Histories of the US South

The book "Port Cities of the Atlantic World" explores the maritime routes and historical networks that connected port cities around the Atlantic world, focusing on the impact of trade on the American South. It calls for a sea-facing history of the South that connects it to the broader maritime history.

Format: Hardback
Length: 278 pages
Publication date: 14 December 2023
Publisher: University of South Carolina Press

Tracing the intricate maritime routes and the historical networks that interconnected port cities across the vast Atlantic world, Port Cities of the Atlantic World presents a captivating collection of essays that delve into the profound impact of trans-Atlantic transportation on the development of what would eventually become the American South. Spanning a vast temporal expanse and encompassing a wide geographic spectrum, the scholars contributing to this volume advocate for a sea-facing history of the South, one that establishes a vital connection between this terrestrial region and the expansive maritime tapestry of the past. By extending the study into the 20th century, the editors, Jacob Steere-Williams and Blake C. Scott, compellingly argue for the enduring influence of these port cities and the rich history of the Atlantic world on the economy, society, and cultural landscape of the contemporary South.

The essays in this volume explore the multifaceted ways in which trans-Atlantic trade shaped the social, economic, and cultural landscapes of the American South. They examine the arrival of enslaved Africans, the exchange of goods and ideas, and the development of urban centers that thrived on the maritime trade. The scholars highlight the role of port cities such as Charleston, New Orleans, and Savannah as hubs of commerce, culture, and innovation, where diverse populations converged and interacted in complex ways.

One of the key themes of the collection is the enduring influence of the Atlantic world on the development of Southern identity and culture. The essays explore how the region's maritime connections shaped its political, economic, and social structures, and how these in turn influenced the formation of distinct regional identities. The scholars emphasize the importance of studying the Atlantic world in order to understand the complex and multifaceted nature of Southern history and culture.

Another notable aspect of the collection is its attention to the global dimensions of the Atlantic world. The essays examine the interconnectedness of port cities across different continents and oceans, highlighting the role of the Atlantic in shaping global trade, migration, and cultural exchange. The scholars emphasize the importance of understanding the complex networks of power and influence that emerged from the trans-Atlantic trade, and how these networks continue to shape the world today.

In conclusion, Port Cities of the Atlantic World offers a valuable contribution to the study of Southern history and culture. By tracing the maritime routes and historical networks that linked port cities across the Atlantic world, the collection provides a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the complex processes that shaped the American South. Through its exploration of the impact of trans-Atlantic trade on social, economic, and cultural development, the volume sheds light on the enduring influence of the Atlantic world on the contemporary South. This collection is a must-read for scholars, students, and anyone interested in understanding the rich and complex history of the region.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781643364568