Gaumbu: Master of the Caribbean Sea

Gaumbu, Master of the Caribbean Sea is a compelling narrative of the resilience, struggle, and triumphs of the Garinagu people, also known as the Black Caribs of St. Vincent and the Grenadines in the West Indies. Spanning from the 1600s, the book delves into the turbulent history of the Garinagu as European powers, particularly the British, coveted and colonized the Caribbean’s fertile lands for sugarcane plantations.

Through guerrilla warfare, the Garinagu fiercely defended their homeland against British forces, but the advent of advanced cannon technology led to their defeat. The aftermath was devastating: the British forcibly separated the Garinagu from their families, deporting them to the uninhabited island of Roatan off the coast of Spanish Honduras. Left to survive amidst jaguars, crocodiles, and other dangers, they faced an uphill battle for survival.

In addition to physical hardships, the Garinagu endured a cultural assault. Propaganda labeled them as cannibals, their religion was demonized, and their language mocked, fostering widespread disrespect and misconceptions about their heritage.

Despite these adversities, the Garinagu persevered. Today, they thrive with a population of over 400,000, having founded numerous towns in Honduras, Guatemala, Belize, and Nicaragua. This book is a celebration of their enduring spirit and rich cultural legacy, offering a powerful account of resilience and survival.