Description
Book SynopsisAfter Haiti's recent earthquake, various American commentators - from Pat Robertson to David Brooks - joined a long tradition of blaming Vodou for the country's woes. This book examines that vexed history, asking why, from 1835 to 1987, Haiti banned many popular ritual practices.
Trade Review"In this compelling study, Ramsey culls a remarkable set of materials to bring to bear on the topic, ranging from colonial travel accounts, memoirs, State Department records, and UN sorcery reports. The richness of her account is a testament to indefatigable research, and she develops fresh insights into the related literature as well. This fascinating book adds much to our knowledge of modern Haiti as well as religion and cultural politics in Latin America and the Caribbean in general." - Lauren Derby, University of California, Los Angeles"
