Capitalism and Slavery by Eric Williams_eBook and Audiobook, with Capitalism and Slavery – Eric William – 75 Years Later- 2 Day Symposium

Book Summary

“Capitalism and Slavery” by Eric Williams is a seminal work that investigates the relationship between the rise of capitalism in Europe and the system of slavery in the Americas. Williams argues that the profits derived from the slave trade and plantation economies were instrumental in fueling the growth of European capitalism, particularly in Britain. The book challenges conventional historical narratives that separate economic development from the exploitation of enslaved people, highlighting how slavery was not only a moral issue but also a critical economic factor in the development of modern capitalism. Williams’ analysis underscores the interconnectedness of race, economics, and history, making a significant contribution to the study of both slavery and economic history.

Essential Themes and Arguments:

  1. Introduction
    • Overview of the book’s objectives and significance
    • Introduction to the central thesis linking capitalism and slavery
    • Contextualization of the historical period under discussion
  2. The Economic Foundations of Slavery
    • Analysis of the economic motivations behind the transatlantic slave trade
    • The role of sugar and other cash crops in the Caribbean economy
    • Examination of the financial networks that supported the slave trade
  3. The Impact of Slavery on British Capitalism
    • Discussion of how profits from slavery contributed to British industrialization
    • Examination of the relationship between slave-derived wealth and British economic growth
    • Analysis of the investment in infrastructure and industry enabled by slave profits
  4. Political and Social Implications
    • Exploration of the political considerations surrounding slavery and abolition
    • Discussion of the social tensions and class struggles linked to the slave economy
    • Examination of the role of enslaved people in resisting their oppression
  5. Abolition and Its Consequences
    • Analysis of the abolition movement and its economic implications
    • Discussion of the motivations behind abolition, including economic shifts
    • Examination of the effects of abolition on both the colonies and Britain
  6. Racial Ideologies and Economic Interests
    • Exploration of how racial theories justified slavery and exploitation
    • Discussion of the intersection of race and economics in shaping societal views
    • Examination of the legacy of these ideologies in contemporary society
  7. Legacy of Slavery in Modern Capitalism
    • Reflection on the long-term economic effects of slavery on global capitalism
    • Discussion of the continued inequalities stemming from historical exploitation
    • Analysis of how understanding this legacy informs current socio-economic debates
  8. Conclusion
    • Summary of key themes and arguments presented throughout the book
    • Final reflections on the importance of recognizing the ties between capitalism and slavery
    • Call for a reevaluation of historical narratives regarding slavery and economic development

Capitalism and Slavery by Eric Williams_eBook

Slavery helped finance the Industrial Revolution in England. Plantation owners, shipbuilders, and merchants connected with the slave trade accumulated vast fortunes that established banks and heavy industry in Europe and expanded the reach of capitalism worldwide. Eric Williams advanced these powerful ideas in Capitalism and Slavery, published in 1944. Years ahead of its time, his profound critique became the foundation for studies of imperialism and economic development. Binding an economic view of history with strong moral argument, Williams’s study of the role of slavery in financing the Industrial Revolution refuted traditional ideas of economic and moral progress and firmly established the centrality of the African slave trade in European economic development. He also showed that mature industrial capitalism in turn helped destroy the slave system. Establishing the exploitation of commercial capitalism and its link to racial attitudes, Williams employed a historicist vision that set the tone for future studies. In a new introduction, Colin Palmer assesses the lasting impact of Williams’s groundbreaking work and analyzes the heated scholarly debates it generated when it first appeared.

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Capitalism and Slavery – Eric William – 75 Years Later- 2 Day Symposium

The CARICOM Reparations Commission in collaboration with the UWI Centre for Reparation Research and the Faculty of Humanities and Education at the UWI St. Augustine Campus is hosting an academic symposium to commemorate the 75th year of the publication of Eric Williams’ Capitalism and Slavery on the 13th November 2019. The themes to be discussed include: • Williams’ Caribbean Vision • The Profits from Enslavement (16th – 19th Century) • Impact of Capitalism and Slavery on the world today (21st Century) • Capitalism and Slavery and Reparations • Capitalism and Slavery – Global Connections • Decolonising Caribbean History At this symposium, we seek to gather scholars, intellectuals, corporate interest groups, artists, and activists to join us to examine the impact of Eric Williams and his work on the contemporary Caribbean and wider world. This symposium will also provide an opportunity to discuss his legacy with the next generation of leaders and intellectuals. Such commemorative activities are taking place all over the world. Symposiums will be held in Britain and the United States. We are adding the Caribbean’s voice through this symposium at the UWI.

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In the Spirit of Crazy Horse: The Story of Leonard Peltier and the FBI’s War on the American Indian Movement, by Peter Matthiessen| eBook and Audiobook, with FREE Leonard Peltier Video Player

In the Spirit of Crazy Horse is a chronicle of a fatal gun-battle between FBI agents and American Indian Movement activists by renowned writer Peter Matthiessen (1927-2014).

Book Summary

“In the Spirit of Crazy Horse: The Story of Leonard Peltier and the FBI’s War on the American Indian Movement” by Peter Matthiessen is a profound examination of the life of Leonard Peltier, a Native American activist and a key figure in the American Indian Movement (AIM). The book details the events surrounding the 1975 shootout at Wounded Knee, the subsequent FBI investigation, and the controversial trial of Peltier, who was convicted of murder in the deaths of two FBI agents. Matthiessen’s narrative provides insights into the systemic oppression faced by Native Americans, the FBI’s aggressive tactics against AIM, and the broader struggles for Indigenous rights in the United States.

Essential Themes and Historical Context:

  1. Introduction to Leonard Peltier
    • Overview of Peltier’s significance within the American Indian Movement
    • Introduction to the themes of oppression and resistance in Native American history
  2. Historical Context of the American Indian Movement
    • The formation of AIM and its goals
    • Key events leading to the rise of Native activism in the 1960s and 1970s
    • The impact of historical injustices on Indigenous communities
  3. The Wounded Knee Incident
    • Description of the 1973 occupation of Wounded Knee
    • Tensions between AIM activists and federal authorities
    • Major events and confrontations during the occupation
  4. The Shootout and Its Aftermath
    • Detailed account of the 1975 shootout that led to the deaths of FBI agents
    • The immediate aftermath and the FBI’s response to the incident
    • The portrayal of Peltier in the media and by the authorities
  5. The FBI’s Campaign Against AIM
    • Examination of the FBI’s surveillance and counterintelligence operations targeting AIM
    • Analysis of tactics used by the FBI to infiltrate and undermine the movement
    • The broader implications of the FBI’s actions on Native American activism
  6. Trial and Conviction of Leonard Peltier
    • Overview of Peltier’s arrest and the legal proceedings that followed
    • Discussion of the evidence presented during the trial and its controversies
    • Examination of claims regarding the fairness of the trial and the judicial system
  7. Public Support and Advocacy
    • Overview of the grassroots movements and public campaigns advocating for Peltier
    • The role of various organizations in raising awareness of his case
    • The significance of international attention and support for Indigenous rights
  8. Legacy and Ongoing Struggles
    • Reflection on Peltier’s impact on the fight for Indigenous rights and justice
    • Discussion of the continuing issues faced by Native Americans today
    • The importance of remembering and honoring the struggles of Indigenous peoples
  9. Conclusion
    • Summary of key themes and insights from Matthiessen’s narrative
    • Final reflections on the significance of Leonard Peltier’s story in the context of American history

In the Spirit of Crazy_eBook

“On a hot June morning in 1975, a desperate shoot-out between FBI agents and Native Americans near Wounded Knee, South Dakota, left an Indian and two federal agents dead. Four members of the American Indian Movement were indicted on murder charges, and one, Leonard Peltier, was convicted and is now serving consecutive life sentences in a federal penitentiary. Behind this violent chain of events lie issues of great complexity and profound historical resonance, brilliantly explicated by Peter Matthiessen in this controversial book. Kept off the shelves for eight years because of one of the most protracted and bitterly fought legal cases in publishing history, In the Spirit of Crazy Horse reveals the Lakota tribe’s long struggle with the U.S. government, and makes clear why the traditional Indian concept of the earth is so important at a time when increasing populations are destroying the precious resources of our world.”

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In the Spirit of Crazy_Audiobook

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Hands Off Uhuru presents: “Unthanksgiving” Victory to African and Indigenous people!­_The Burning Spear TV, with Uhuru 3 Trial Re-enactment

Last Updated 12-06-24

https://handsoffuhuru.org/

Uhuru 3 Trial Re-enactment

3 Video Playlist (Episodes One thru Three.)

Companion Post/Lessons

Manifest Destiny and American Holocaust_Dr. Ward Churchill Lecture, History of COINTELPRO and COINTELPRO and Terrorism, The COINTELPRO Papers – Ward Churchill & Jim Vander Wall (eBook and Audiobook)

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Uhuru 3 Trial, September 2024

Uhuru 3 Trial, September 2024 | INSIDE: Chm. Omali and Uhuru Movement Folder

Native Americans & The American Indian Movement (AIM)

Native Americans & The American Indian Movement (AIM)  Folder

Revolutionary Path (1973), by Kwame Nkrumah_eBook and Audiobook, with RBG Communiversity Africa Must Unite Video Player

Book Summary

“Revolutionary Path” by Kwame Nkrumah is a significant work detailing the author’s political philosophy, his vision for Africa, and the strategies he believed necessary for achieving liberation and development. Below is an outline and summary of the key themes and concepts of the book.

  • Introduction
    • Nkrumah’s motivations for writing the book
    • The context of African liberation movements
  • Historical Context
    • The colonial legacy in Africa
    • The role of imperialism in shaping African politics
    • Nkrumah’s experiences and observations
  • Philosophy of Revolution
    • Definition of revolution in the African context
    • The importance of self-determination
    • Nkrumah’s concept of “Consciencism”
      • Melding of African traditions with socialist principles
  • The Path to Independence
    • Strategies for achieving political liberation
    • The role of mass movements and grassroots organization
    • Importance of Pan-Africanism
  • Building a New Society
    • Economic strategies for post-colonial Africa
    • Emphasis on education and industrialization
    • The need for unity among African nations
  • Challenges and Obstacles
    • Internal and external threats to revolutionary movements
    • The role of neocolonialism
  • Conclusion
    • Nkrumah’s vision for the future of Africa
    • Call to action for African leaders and citizens

Summary in Bullet Points

  • Motivation: Nkrumah expresses the necessity of a revolutionary path for African nations emerging from colonialism.
  • Colonial Legacy: Discusses how colonial history has shaped current political landscapes and the need for a radical change.
  • Revolution Defined: Emphasizes that a true revolution must involve complete self-determination and liberation from imperialist control.
  • Consciencism: Introduces his philosophy that combines African cultural heritage with socialist ideals to forge a unique path for development.
  • Strategies for Independence: Advocates for mass mobilization, political organization, and coalition-building among various factions.
  • Pan-Africanism: Stresses the importance of unity among African nations to combat neocolonialism and promote collective progress.
  • Economic Development: Proposes that post-independence Africa must focus on education, industry, and self-sufficiency to thrive.
  • Neocolonialism: Warns against the subtler forms of colonialism, which threaten the sovereignty of African states even after formal independence.
  • Vision for the Future: Calls for a collective effort to build a prosperous and united Africa, free from external domination.

“Revolutionary Path” serves as both a historical account and a blueprint for future generations seeking to navigate the complexities of post-colonial Africa. Nkrumah’s insights continue to resonate in discussions of nationalism, unity, and development on the continent.

“Revolutionary Path” is a profound exploration of the political, social, and economic challenges facing Africa in the wake of colonial rule. Here are some deeper insights into the key themes and ideas presented in the book:

Key Themes and Ideas

  • Colonial Legacy:
    • Nkrumah discusses how the colonial experience has left deep scars on African societies, creating divisions and dependencies that hinder progress. He emphasizes that true independence cannot be achieved merely through political freedom but requires a complete restructuring of societal norms and economic systems.
  • Philosophy of Consciencism:
    • This concept is central to Nkrumah’s ideology. Consciencism combines African cultural values with socialist principles, advocating for a new identity rooted in both tradition and modernity. Nkrumah argues that this philosophy is essential for creating a cohesive national consciousness that can drive the revolutionary movement.
  • Mass Mobilization:
    • Nkrumah stresses the importance of involving the masses in the revolutionary struggle. He believes that true change comes from the grassroots level, and political movements must be inclusive and representative of the people’s aspirations. He highlights successful examples of mass movements in Africa and their role in achieving independence.
  • Pan-African Unity:
    • The author passionately argues for the unity of African nations as a strategy for combating imperialism and neocolonialism. He envisions a united Africa where countries collaborate economically and politically, sharing resources and knowledge to enhance collective development.
  • Economic Independence:
    • Nkrumah outlines a vision for economic self-sufficiency, emphasizing the need for African nations to develop their own industries and agricultural systems. He argues that reliance on foreign powers for economic support perpetuates dependency and undermines sovereignty.
  • Challenges of Neocolonialism:
    • He warns that the struggle for independence is not over with the end of colonial rule. Neocolonialism, characterized by foreign economic and political influence, continues to threaten African nations. Nkrumah calls for vigilance and proactive measures to resist these new forms of domination.
  • Education and Enlightenment:
    • Education is portrayed as a crucial tool for empowerment and development. Nkrumah believes that educating the populace will foster critical thinking, political awareness, and a sense of responsibility among citizens, enabling them to participate actively in nation-building.
  • Call to Action:
    • Throughout the book, Nkrumah urges African leaders and citizens to embrace the revolutionary path. He calls for action, solidarity, and commitment to the ideals of freedom, justice, and equality, stressing that the future of Africa depends on collective efforts.

Impact and Legacy

“Revolutionary Path” is more than just a political manifesto; it serves as a historical document reflecting Nkrumah’s vision for a liberated Africa. His ideas have influenced numerous movements and leaders across the continent, inspiring a generation to fight for self-determination and social justice.

Overall, Nkrumah’s work is a vital reminder of the complexities involved in achieving true independence and the ongoing struggles that many African nations face. His call for unity, self-reliance, and a commitment to revolutionary ideals continues to resonate today as Africa navigates its path in a globalized world.

Revolutionary Path_eBook

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Black Liberation and Socialism, by Ahmed Shawki_eBook and Audiobook, with In Memoriam Ahmed Shawki (1960–2023)

Credits: Ahmed Shawki

“A sharp and insightful analysis of historic movements against racism in the United States—from the separatism of Marcus Garvey, to the militancy of Malcolm X and the Black Panther Party, to the eloquence of Martin Luther King Jr. and much more—with essential lessons for today’s struggles. In the 40 years since the civil rights movement, many gains have been made—but there is still far to go to win genuine change. Here is a badly needed primer on the history and future of the struggle against racism.”

Black Liberation and Socialism_eBook

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