Caribbean Studies

Module 1 Section 1

Location and Definition of the Caribbean Region

“Caribbean” Defined

How do we define Caribbean? What words come to mind when we

say Caribbean?????

Geographical Definition Mass of islands within the Caribbean Sea Greater Antilles (Puerto Rico, Jamaica,

Cube Hispaniola) Lesser Antilles (everything south of Puerto

Rico) Bahamas Anything touching the Caribbean Sea

(Central America, Northern South. America

Greater AntillesCuba, Jamaica, Hispaniola, Puerto Rico

Lesser Antilles

The CaribbeanGeographic Representation of the Caribbean

Geological Definition

The entire area sits on a Tectonic Plate called the Caribbean Plate

The Caribbean Plate is in motion, caused by the currents of the heated mantle

Bound by the Atlantic Plate and Nazca Plate

Caribbean PlateRelationship with other plates.

Historical Definition

The entire area exists as a result of European colonization and exploitation

Indentureship, slavery, plantation society, genocide

``Colonial Cockpit of Europe,`` Spain, England, France, Holland

Political Definition

The area comprises of independent states, dependent territories and associated states

French Territories (Martinique, Guadeloupe) Dutch Territories (Curacao, Aruba, St.

Maarten) US Territory (US Virgin Island, Puerto Rico) English Territory (British Virgin Islands)

Caribbean Identity

What is Identity? Is Identity special or unique? Can the way we identify ourselves in

the Caribbean be unique from the rest of the world?

What are the components of our Caribbean Identity?

HOMEWORK

Why is it so difficult to define the Caribbean?

What is the difference between defining the Caribbean and the United States?

Can you see yourself as a Caribbean person rather than a Trinidadian? Give reasons for answers.

Unique features of Caribbean people

Sense of humour Informal approach to life Demonstrative way of communicating Food or cuisine Dialect Style of music, dance Festivals

Unique features

Religion-rastafariaism,

Immitated Features

Fashion Music Certain Foods – fast Technology Religion- R.C., etc. Festivals Sports and Recreation.