The West Indies: A Short History of the Early Caribbean Sea

Though not part of India, as originally imagined, the sea and islands of the Caribbean are central to the story of Western Civilization. The history and lore of this sea is as awe-inspiring as a sunrise across its waves and beaches. From initial contact with the Old World through colonization by the great powers of Europe, the Caribbean is at the heart of the history of the Western Hemisphere. This short course will trace its history from ancient times to the founding of the United States of America. Among the characters we will encounter are indigenous peoples, explorers, conquistadors, colonists and pirates.