Imperialism since its introduction through colonialism has always had an influence and dominance over Caribbean society and this conformity by Caribbean society has negatively impacted its culture; diminishing the Caribbean’s rich and superlative identity. In Trinidad and Tobago, there has been a distinctive and progressive move away from their traditional culture[1] which is seen in the music, fashion, goods, and many more cultural factors. Calypso was introduced as a means for slaves to express and cope with their circumstances, however as time progressed a decline in appreciation of calypso increased, with competing genres such as trap, pop, r&b and hip-hop music being overvalued by the younger generation[2]. Social media despite having positive benefits can also be seen as a modern means of promoting imperialism as the younger generation aspires popular culture of the more dominant countries that is heavily portrayed through social media. [3]

Despite some countries conforming to popular culture, there are many countries that preserve their culture as best as they can. In Jamaica, reggae continues to be the voice of their people, which also educates and shows the relevance of Caribbean history and an identity. This genre has consistently survived the global market and makes strides in the world of music.[4] With artists such as Bob Marley Sizzla and Chronixx that promotes the ideologies of pan Africanists such as Marcus Garvey brings awareness of Caribbean identity which aids in how one sees themselves and their surroundings. 

The effect of identity, imperialism and mass media has seemingly influenced the identity of Caribbean countries. Despite some countries conforming to these ideologies, others have been able through their culture withstand firmly. 

[1] https://www.forbes.com/forbes/welcome/?toURL=https://www.forbes.com/2009/04/20/america-of-caribbean-opinions-contributors-trinidad.html&refURL=&referrer=#1c474a30626a [2] https://www.thecaribbeancurrent.com/is-calypso-dying-or-dead/ [3] https://utarcommtech.wordpress.com/2016/03/02/cultural-imperialism-how-western-culture-affected-developing-countries-by-technology/ [4] http://www.chronicle.co.zw/the-reggae-influence/ 

The online teaching method used by the coordinators in this course proved itself to be efficient and interactive. Through online interactions with students and coordinators/lecturers points were understood and elaborated well enough for students to grasp. All topics were reiterated with Caribbean examples which clarified any misconceptions that students might have held. 

The issues raised in this course were informative and has piqued my interest in doing more research into Caribbean history; it highlighted a new detailed perspective of Caribbean history and society that’s been underemphasized in our society. Due to Caribbean Civilisation redressing issues ranging from gender issues to imperialism and much more that gives a better foundation into the connection of past and present I’m better able to understand my worth as a member of the Caribbean.

This course offered a lot of online interaction which was very convenient however it became a challenge to stay focused when it was that students would have sidetracked conversation which could’ve been supervised more. Also, the topic of gender and masculinity could’ve been elaborated on more.

Lastly, as a student of Caribbean civilization, I’ve learned more about my history which has enable me to identify and understand myself more which will aid in my development currently and in the future. The online teaching method which was very new to me have proven to be effective and the various assignments aided me in critically analyzing and discussing literary and academic work.

Trade liberalization within the Caribbean has proven to be economically sustainable as it has created a secure market for local goods to be exchanged amongst regional islands. With products such as rum from Grenada that are sold regionally, clothing and much more has initiated an economic identity and integration as it is constantly reinforced with continuous trade amongst islands. 

Secondly, with “free movement” there is the result of an even access to resources for members of the community. Individuals can travel freely to neighbouring countries and work in varying markets, accessing the varying benefits available to them as seen in the European Union where one can travel freely without impeding limitations[1]; this promotes an economic identity and closeness as members are able to aid in the development of member states through human capital. Unfortunately, a lack of proper enforcement of laws and legislation has led to mishaps, confusion, and segregation amongst members of the community[2]. Most noticeable is the experience of Shanique Myrie, who was denied entry into Barbados, cavity searched and deported back to Jamaica in 2011[3]. There are many instances of community members being denied entry into member states such as the on-going situation of Trinidad and Tobago consistently deporting Jamaican nationals[4] despite free movement being an agreed initiative in the Treaty of Chagaramus signed by all member states. 

Despite the initiatives of CARICOM such as free movement and trade liberalization that has led to an economic identity for the Caribbean, there are still issues that require the united attention of member states if a collective identity is expected to develop and survive. 

 

[1] http://caricom.org/movement-of-people/ [2] https://wired868.com/2016/05/15/caricom-divided-the-myth-of-caribbean-free-movement/ [3] http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/Shanique-Myrie-paid-by-Barbados-Government_16996057 [4] http://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/lead-stories/20160716/trinidad-denied-320-jamaicans-entry-last-year 

A single powerful entity can control how and what is being presented which shapes the mindset of the masses. Through repetition, the single narrative becomes somewhat normal and accepted to those it is exposed to.  In Chimamanda’s experience, Africa’s single story was that of poverty, suffrage, and underdevelopment which was constantly portrayed and broadcasted by the mass media, which altered her roommate’s and teacher’s perception of both Africa and herself.  

In addition, Chimamnda was led to believe that her house-slave Fide’ was poor due to her mother telling her that single story, this influenced her perception of Fide as she viewed him as being poor and nothing else until she was privy to his family and their hardworking traits. 

Similarly, a single story of the Neo-Indians of the Caribbean was given by the Europeans, portraying them as uncivilized savages whereas Columbus and the Europeans were portrayed as great explorers. Due to this single story being popularised by the Europeans through their writing and journals, their narrative became accepted and somewhat normal but not just to other Europeans and the global community but to Caribbean society as these were the concepts socialized and accepted.[1]

However, through revisionism, new evidence and discoveries have been able to challenge the information and claims recorded by the Europeans, giving way to a different story of the Neo-Indians. [2]This is an advantage because new perspective are available, giving seekers a fair opportunity to come to their own conclusion. In addition, due to accessibility to recording writings as the Europeans, citizens can write and contribute to their own recorded history and make changes to single stories. This has led to positive gestures such as “First People Day” in Trinidad and Tobago to acknowledge the Neo-Indians.

                In conclusion, a single story can be harmful both in the short and long run to a society that is incapable of controlling how they are publicized however with revisionism non-discriminatory information can be recorded and disseminated. 

 

[1] http://www.history.com/topics/exploration/christopher-columbus[2] http://www.historyisaweapon.com/defcon1/zinncol1.html