The Sociology of Slavery: Black Society in Jamaica , 1655-1838

Orlando Patterson's classic study of slavery in Jamaica reveals it as a highly repressive and destructive system of human exploitation that disregarded and distorted basic social prerequisites. He analyzes the lives and culture of slaves, showing a breakdown of all major social institutions and a persistent sense of resentment and injustice. This second edition includes a new introduction by Patterson, making it an essential text for understanding the role of slavery in shaping the modern world.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 28 April 2022
Publisher: Polity Press

Orlando Patterson's seminal work on slavery in Jamaica provides a comprehensive and harrowing account of this brutal system of human exploitation. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Patterson exposes the sheer brutality and inhumanity of slavery, revealing its profound impact on the lives of the enslaved.

Patterson's account stands out for its detailed depiction of the lives and culture of slaves under this repressive regime. He delves into the harsh conditions of slave life and work on the plantations, exploring the psychological toll that this system took on the enslaved. He also examines the patterns and meanings of life and death within the slave community, highlighting the resilience and creativity that emerged in the face of adversity.

What is particularly striking about Patterson's work is his analysis of the breakdown of all major social institutions within slave society. The family, gender relations, religion, trust, and morality were all distorted and violated by the slave system, leading to a complete breakdown of social order. Despite the repressive nature of the regime, slaves managed to maintain some sense of autonomy and resistance, often through small acts of defiance and collective action.

Slave culture, characterized by a persistent sense of resentment and injustice, played a significant role in the day-to-day resistance and large-scale rebellions that were a constant feature of slave society. These rebellions, such as the famous 1831 uprising in Jamaica, were a testament to the slaves' determination to resist their oppression and fight for their freedom.

Patterson's book is widely recognized as a foundational work on the social institution of slavery. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the historical, economic, and social factors that contributed to the development and persistence of slavery. This second edition, with a new introduction by Patterson, further enhances the book's relevance and significance, offering insights into the origins of the work, its impact on subsequent scholarship, and its enduring importance in shaping our understanding of the modern world.

In conclusion, Orlando Patterson's classic study of slavery in Jamaica is a powerful and essential text for anyone interested in the history and impact of this brutal system of human exploitation. Through his detailed research and compelling storytelling, Patterson exposes the full extent of the suffering and resilience of the enslaved, highlighting the profound ways in which slavery shaped the modern world. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities and consequences of slavery and its legacy.

Weight: 722g
Dimension: 236 x 153 x 34 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781509550975