Antigua and the Antiguans, Volume 2 (of 2)a Full Account of the Colony and Its Inhabitants from the Time of the Caribs to the Present Day

A historical account written in the mid-19th century. The book offers a detailed examination of the colony of Antigua and its inhabitants, including a thorough exploration of the indigenous Carib people and the impact of slavery and free labor systems in the region. It delves into historical anecdotes and the lives of the major families in Antigua, painting a vivid picture of the social and cultural fabric of the island. The opening of the volume introduces the Caribs, highlighting their domestic life and societal structure, characterized by a harsh treatment of women and brutal customs. It effectively portrays the contrast between parental affection and the violent superstitions that governed their upbringing. As the narrative unfolds, it describes the Caribs' fierce warrior culture, their interaction with nature, and the crucial roles of traditional crafts. Mrs. Lanaghan combines historical accounts with personal reflections, creating an emotional engagement with the subject matter that seeks to inform and provoke thought in the reader regarding the stark realities of life in Antigua during this tumultuous period.