Dying to Better Themselves: West Indians and the Building of the Panama Canal

Powerful book on the history of our resilient people on this side of the globe. We have been builders, scientists, explorers, visionaries, and civilization builders when what we know as Europe today was where the barbarians lived.

I'm in the process of reading this book

Not too many West Indians are aware of the mass migration of workers from islands such as Jamaica and Barbados to the Isthmus to build the railroad and canal. They are even less aware of the invaluable contribution of these migrants to one of the most remarkable feats of engineering ever attempted. The lasting impact that this migration had on the general culture, politics and economics of these islands, even when a number of migrants never returned home because they died trying to better themselves, as the book's title indicates, or moved on to opportunities in the U.S. for example. Olive Senior has managed to engage, enlighten and educate on a critical but little known aspect of our history that will certainly advance our understanding and appreciation of the nature, value and necessity of migration in the development of the islands of the West Indies.It is not surprising that Ms. Senior's presentation also reveals the horrors, racism and financial discrimination that were a natural part of the work environment at the time. The work is usefully accompanied by numerous photographs and almost punishingly replete with references that enhance its authenticity. There is no question that this work is among the most complete and insightful of its kind regarding the building of the Panama Canal. Whether one is a student of history or simply a curious observer of culture, politics and the economics of migration, "Dying To Better Themselves" is distinctly worth reading, especially if one has roots in any of the islands of the West Indies.

I was hoping to find a reference to my Jamaican roots. I found pictures of my great grandfather, my grand uncle(my grandmother's brother), his wife (my grandfather's cousin), and my mother's first cousin. This thrilled me. Books were my first friends.

Still reading but for what I can tell, the history is interesting especially coming from Panama I learn so much more that was not taught to me previously growing up as a child.

meticulous research and fabulous writing! very engaging!

An absolute gem, I learned, I laughed, I cried and I came away with a sense of gratitude to the writer who so meticulously researched the contribution West Indians made to the construction of the canal. Thank you Ms. Senior

Very well written and rich with interesting information.

This story had to be told from the perspective of the protagonists and at long last it has, unfortunately after they have passed on, but better late than never. Marvelous illustrations.