This book attempts a comparative analysis of the condition of Blacks in the new world diaspora. The editors contend that this diaspora cannot be fully understood apart from politics and social structure, or apart from the broad historical background of the political economy of plantation society, capitalism and their profound structural legacies. It brings a focused perspective to a previously neglected group of people in different nation-states who labor under very real social and political handicaps. Ultimately the themes of persistence and resilience are the focus of these essays.