Hubs of Empire

This insightful book explores the interconnected histories of Caribbean colonies, particularly focusing on Hubs of Empire and its significance in Britain's Atlantic economy.

This volume serves as an excellent introduction to the intricate and captivating history of colonies that are frequently overlooked in traditional textbooks. In Hubs of Empire, Matthew Mulcahy presents a compelling argument for viewing Barbados, Jamaica, the British Leeward Islands, and the South Carolina and Georgia Lowcountry as interconnected regions. Although separated by vast oceans, these territories shared a common history and economic interests that contributed to the formation of the Greater Caribbean. Despite its limited presence in the historical narratives of many Americans, this area was a crucial hub of Britain's Atlantic economy.

The narrative begins in the sixteenth century, offering insights into Native American life and early incursions by pirates and privateers. Mulcahy delves into the establishment of settler colonies during the seventeenth and early eighteenth centuries, highlighting the diverse groups of European colonists who contributed to the region's development. He also addresses the political, economic, and military challenges faced before the onset of the Seven Years War. The plantation system, which reached its most severe form in the Greater Caribbean, was characterized by a significant number of enslaved Africans, often outnumbering Europeans, thus allowing for the preservation of African traditions and the emergence of unique creole cultures.

Hubs of Empire is not only a meticulously constructed account of the British Greater Caribbean but also a work that is both historically accurate and intellectually stimulating. Matthew Mulcahy's expertise and mastery of the historical context shine throughout the text, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in this often-neglected aspect of history.