What is it about?

The article examines how major institutions in post-emancipation Dutch Caribbean Curaçao promoted colonial moral values of "respectability" among African-descendant people and explores the ways in which they were contested or challenged within the society.

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Why is it important?

The study focusing on post-emancipation Curaçao is uniquely valuable due to its exploration of how colonial institutions, such as the Catholic Church, imposed societal norms and notions of respectability on the African-descendant working class. By examining these historical dynamics, the research illuminates how power structures and cultural influences shape identity and notions of respectability, offering insights into discussions around race, colonial legacies, and social justice. This study contributes significantly to broader conversations on the intersections of race, class, and morality in post-slavery societies, providing timely perspectives on historical and contemporary issues.

Perspectives

I believe this study can provide valuable insights into exploring historical, cultural, and social justice themes within post-emancipation Dutch Caribbean societies following the abolition of slavery in 1863. It deepens our understanding of this unique linguistic area and the historical dynamics that have shaped it. These insights are crucial for contemporary discussions on identity and social justice, emphasizing how historical influences continue to impact present-day issues. This research contributes significantly to contextualizing and addressing ongoing challenges within the region, fostering a deeper appreciation of its complexities and historical legacies.

Rose Mary Allen
University of Curacao Dr Moises da Costa Gomez

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This page is a summary of: Preliminary Material, April 2024, De Gruyter,
DOI: 10.1163/9789004690882_001.
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