NO ONE’S BACKYARD! REVOLUTION IN THE CARIBBEAN

In 1823, the infamous declaration from President James Monroe called for an “end” to European colonization in the Caribbean, but instead ushered in a new era of exploitation at the hands of the United States. From the region’s strategic location to its rich wealth of natural resources, the Caribbean was the perfect place from which the growing imperialist power could set up shop, propping up dictatorships, establishing military bases, and imposing itself upon the entire Western Hemisphere.

But the Caribbean refuses to be the “backyard of the United States.” Looking back to the victory of the Haitian Revolution in 1804, to the Cuban Revolution, to Maurice Bishop and the New Jewel Movement in Grenada, it becomes clear that there is a long history of Caribbean resistance. But even today, the U.S. and its allies continue to push for military intervention, its only offering to the region. The Caribbean is at a crossroads, but the choice is clear. The struggle for freedom, steeped in the legacy of a revolutionary tradition, resonates across nations as the people demand an end to domination—there is no choice but revolution! Take up its history and learn about what a liberated and truly sovereign Caribbean could look like!

This was a hybrid course that ran from November 1 – December 7, 2023 with classes twice a week. Register below to receive the student portal password and get access to the class recordings, reading packets, reflection questions and other course material.