Labour Control in Belize, Jamaica
and the United States of America
by Dr. Peter Hitchen

This is a dissertation by Dr. Peter Hitchen, Professor of North American history in the Department of Humanities at the University of Central Lancashire. It examines the role of slavery as utilized in the mahogony harvest of Belize (British Honduras) and the sugar plantations of Jamaica, both dating from 1830, and the plantation system of the southern United States. Inherent in Hitchen's dissertation is reaffirmation of the golden rule: “He who has the gold, makes the rules,” for it is demonstrated that neither an act of Parliament nor a Civil War could change the fundamental economics of the slavery system. Those who retained power, whether through property ownership, wealth, education, or other form of control, dictated the labour control system. Slaves, although freed, remained dependent upon the powerholders for their very survival so were free in name only. They continued as indentured servants long after being granted their “freedom.”

Dr. Hitchen's dissertation is flawless, from his presentation to his footnotes to his extensive bibliography. It should be required reading for anyone studying the issue of slavery. It is rated a five in all categories. But more significant than this reviewer's comments are those of the following peers, experts in the area of study undertaken by Dr. Hitchen: “The highest rated dissertation. Admired for its ambition, soundness, sophistication, and key concepts. No more to add, except, well done.” Dr. Keith Vernon and Dr. John Manley, University of Central Lancashire.

Doctors Vernon and Manley said it well.

Gloomwing Review by Steven M. Ulmen

Pages: 110
Softcover ISBN:1-4116-5715-2
Softcover ($9.99) available at http://www.lulu.com/content/166211

Hardcover ISBN: N/A
Hardcover ($20.99) available at http://www.lulu.com/content/183087

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