Black Hawk: The Battle for the Heart of America – Kerry A. Trask

On February 28, 2025 By Genyc79In American HistoryLeave a comment

While reviewing recommendations from Bookbub, I came across this book from author Kerry A. Trask about Black Hawk (1767-1838), a war chief in the Sauk tribe in North America. Today their descendants can be found in the States of Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, and Oklahoma. The title grabbed my attention, and I began to ask myself how much I knew of Black Hawk and the Sauk people. I soon realized that I knew extraordinarily little and decided to make the purchase and rediscover a piece of American history. And what I found is a haunting yet important book about our nation’s past.

Prior knowledge of the Sauk tribe or the Black Hawk War of 1832 is not necessary to appreciate this book. The author provides a thorough explanation of Sauk history. The only trouble I initially had was keeping a mental picture of locations in the story. A map nearby may be a useful tool and keeping track of their movements, particularly after the treaty signed between Sauk representatives and the U.S. Government in 1804. This agreement would prove to be the pivotal moment in the story and set the Sauk on a collision course with the United States military. However, America was also going through growing pains, and the author discusses the horrid shape of the army in the early 1800s as confrontations with the native tribes increased with deadly consequences.

It should be noted that the book is not an easy or lighthearted read. In fact, there are parts of the story which will be uncomfortable. There are no glorious moments or riding off into the sunset. This story is vivid, raw and touches on a dark time in American history which should be known, understood, and never forgotten. That does not mean that the book is a story of American aggression against native tribes. While there are moments in which foresight would have helped, actions by the native tribes are equally as haunting and focus on the life and death situations which occurred frequently outside of the borders of the United States. I was mindful that in 1804, there were only seventeen states in the union and territory further west was “unorganized”. I say that loosely due to the fact that British and French fur traders continued to operate outside of America’s borders and further north in Canada.

After learning about the Sauk way of life, the story changes gears when Indiana Territory Governor and future President William Henry Harrison (1773-1841) signs the Treaty of St. Louis with Sauk representatives in November 1804. Each side had their view of the treaty, and the author explains the series of events for the reader to decide. Strangely, the Sauk returned years later and agreed once again on the conditions offered. However, Black Hawk and the older leaders decided that they would not surrender their land and the arrival of white settlers in Sauk territory set the stage for dark acts of retribution which Washington could not ignore. Readers familiar with America’s wars with the “Indians” will not be surprised at the descriptions of violence towards settlers. The text is grim, and emphasizes the risk taken by those venturing into unknown territory. While I read, I was reminded of the Fort Parker Massacre in 1836, discussed extensively in S.C. Gwynne’s ‘Empire of the Summer Moon: Quanah Parker and the Rise and Fall of the Comanches, the Most Powerful Indian Tribe in American History‘, a book which left me speechless. It may be tempting to view the natives as “savages”, but it is imperative to remember that they lived in a world far different from Europeans and had their own customs in regard to conflict resolution and protection of their territory.

The Sauk had been forced to move west in 1831 by military intervention but decided to re-claim their land in 1832. And here is where things escalate. Our ringside seat allows us to see the suspense build as Black Hawk and the association of Fox and Kickapoos, form their war council in response to increasing pressure from the United States. And once the military campaigns begin, the heat is turned up and the months between April and August of 1832 would be remembered for the bloodshed and heartache as the Black Hawk War claimed its victims. Early in the campaign, the native tribes maintain an advantage over American troops, but the military might of the United States and a Iowa County militia Colonel Henry Dodge (1782-1867) would prove to be too much. Interesting, two highly important figures in American history make an appearance in the story: future President Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865) and future Confederacy President Jefferson Davis (1808-1889). This caught me completely off guard and added more intrigue to the story. The climatic Battle of Bad Axe would be the final nail in the coffin of the Sauk but Black Hawk’s story was far from over. However, he could not run forever and eventually accepts defeat, but the story takes a few unexpected turns. Following his death in 1838, the story becomes even more bizarre and disturbing as post-mortem events play out.

This book is a gem, and I did not anticipate the impactful story contained within. It is well-researched, well-written and a frank but enlightening discussion of America’s past. A friend once told me that history should never be erased but always understood. The indigenous tribes of North America endured heartache, separation, betrayal, and death as the United States expanded its borders. However, the tribes also battled each other and committed acts of unspeakable violence against settlers looking for greener pastures. History can be uplifting but it can also be sobering and haunting. As I stated before, there is no glory to be found in this raw look at the past. But we can find value in understanding the story of the Sauk and all that they lost.

ASIN ‏ : ‎ B00GET19F6
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Henry Holt and Co.; First edition (December 24, 2013)

King: A Life – Jonathan Eig

On February 17, 2025 By Genyc79In BiographiesLeave a comment

The late Huey P. Newton (1942-1989) once stated that “the first lesson a revolutionary must learn is that he is a doomed man“. These words by Newton have proven to be accurate when examining the lives of those who sought to enact radical change throughout the world. At 6:00 p.m., on the evening of April 4, 1968, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (1929-1968) was standing on the second-floor balcony of the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee embracing the fresh air when the sound of a gunshot was heard. The members of his entourage looked up to the balcony to see him lying on his back and mortally wounded. He was rushed to St. Joseph’s Hospital where he was declared dead at 7:05 p.m. An icon of the Civil Rights Movement had been silenced but his impact and words were not. Dr. King did not live to see the fruits of his labor, and he had come to accept that reality before his tragic death. His story has been told numerous times over the years, but when I saw this Pulitzer Prize winning book by Jonathan Eig, I decided to add it to my reading list. And what I found is a well-written, well-researched and balanced account of Dr. King’s short but extraordinary life.

As I began to read the book, I noticed that the footnotes are placed at the end of the book as opposed to the end of each chapter. This approach made the narrative flow much smoother, and I hardly noticed the page count while reading. The book does move chronologically as one would expect from a biography, but it feels more like a discussion than a timeline of King’s life. Further, the author pulls no punches when it comes to King’s faults but also gives credit to his successes, and this gives the book a well-rounded feeling to it. I do caution readers that it is necessary to approach the biography as unbiased as possible because there are parts of the story that do not show King is the most favorable light. But he was a human being and had his flaws like everyone else and there is more to the story than you will find in history textbooks.

The crucial historical moments in America’s past are discussed as they should be, but the private side of his life is where the book excels. His personal emotional struggles with fame and purpose, and infidelity are intense sections of the book but also revealing. Personally, I was aware of his romances outside of his marriage but the scale of it was larger than I had previously known. In fact, Eig’s book shows that the real number of women may be higher than anyone suspected. King was aware of his weakness but his statements regarding his father Martin Luther King, Sr. (1899-1984) are revealing. Women had always been a soft spot for the Kings, and Martin Jr., would find one of his most challenging experiences in his romance with a white woman named Amelia “Betty” Moitz. This is a part of Dr. King’s life I never learned about through any school textbook. In hindsight we know that the relationship did not last but the story is interesting and will have you asking yourself questions about the couple and how their lives would be in the year 2025. Of course, this was during the reign of Jim Crow and interracial dating and marriages were extremely taboo and, in some states, illegal. This section of the book alone should be a reminder of the many freedoms we sometimes take for granted.

Following his courtship of Coretta Scott (1927-2006), the couple elopes and begins to expand their family. However, we soon begin to see that Martin’s calling to the growing movement meant extensive time away from home. Although he did have strong bonds with his children, his rigorous travel schedule, and the amount of territory he covers in the book are surreal. Coretta authored her own book titled ‘My Life, My Love, My Legacy‘ which is a valuable resource regarding the couple’s home life. Thankfully, help in the movement comes in the form of other activists whose own lives would be deeply affected by their determination for equality. King’s friend and close colleague Rev. Ralph D. Abernathy (1926-1990), and mentors Bayard Rustin (1912-1987) and Stanley Levison (1912-1979) prove to be anchors to keep him grounded as the intensity of the movement increased. The relationship between King and Levison is a focal point in the story due to the latter’s affiliation with communist parties and the interest taken towards both men by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) led by J. Edgar Hoover (1924-1972), whose obsession with King was nothing short of paranoia. The FBI weighs heavily on the story not only due to its surveillance of King, but also due to the bureau’s actions towards other figures in the story such as Malcolm X (1925-1965) who is part of the story on a handful of occasions but represented a far more frightening alternative to Dr. King.

Throughout the book, King fights battles on every front, and his relationship with President Lyndon B. Johnson (1908-1973) produced some of the highest achievements in the lives of both men. However, it also marked the initial descent of their influence and popularity due to circumstances each struggled to control. The buildup and fallout are riveting and tragic but a critical part in the final four years of Martin’s life. Readers who lived through the events discussed in the book may feel a surge of memories coming flooding back to a time in America my father has described as the “scariest years of his life” due to the civil unrest, assassinations, and the war in Vietnam. While Martin was traveling, speaking, and laying his life on the line, Coretta was at home, but that does not mean she was immobile or insignificant. In fact, she was a source of strength and sanity for Martin when he arrived home. And had he retired from the movement as friends had suggested, this book would have a different ending. However, King had found his purpose and the last speech he gave in the days leading up to his assassination continues to give me chills.

Slowly but surely, the moment we know is coming arrives and the darkness surrounding it is no less pronounced today than it surely was then. An epilogue follows the narrative and provides a short follow-up to the post-assassination events. After finishing the book, I found a deeper appreciation for Dr. King’s work and legacy while at the same time accepting his flaws. J. Edgar Hoover was convinced that Dr. King was a “fraud”, but the truth is far more complex. While he may not have measured up to Hoover’s standards, he did place his life on the line for what he believed in, and in doing so he became an icon around the world. We can disagree on his approach and character, but his impact and achievements stand on their own merits. If you like this book, I also recommend Ralph Abernathy’s ‘And the Walls Came Tumbling Down‘ in which he discusses his friendship with Martin and the mission to break down Jim Crow.

ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0BBD5GXTF
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Farrar, Straus and Giroux (May 16, 2023)

Wyatt Earp: A Vigilante Life – Andrew C. Isenberg

On February 12, 2025 By Genyc79In BiographiesLeave a comment

The Wild West, also known as the American Frontier or Old West, remains a special era in United States history. Historical figures such as Jesse James (1847-1882) and Billy the Kid (1859-1881) are a part of American pop-culture with latter the subject of two Hollywood films in which actor Emilio Estevez plays the famed outlaw. But there is another figure equally as popular and controversial, whose life was also adapted for the silver screen. Anyone familiar with the Old West certainly knows the name of Wyatt Berry Stapp Earp (1848-1929), portrayed in films as noble lawman who survived a shootout with Ike Clanton (1847-1887) and his gang of bandits. When I saw this book, I thought of the films ‘Tombstone‘ and ‘Wyatt Earp‘ which are both fun to watch. Earp’s life was portrayed well, but did Hollywood get it right? The answer is both yes and no, and unsurprisingly, there is more to Earp’s story than shown on the silver screen. This biography by Andew C. Isenberg explores Earp’s life to separate fact from fiction.

Prior to starting the book, I did read reviews from others who were critical of the book as not being extensive enough. However, most agreed that it is well-researched and a fair look at Wyatt’s life. I cannot say whether this is the “definitive” biography, but I can say that for readers in search of a good starting point from which to learn about Earp’s life, this book is sufficient. I did not see Earp as a villain or hero before I purchased the book. And I have always felt that characters from the Old West were products of their time. Of course, that in no way diminishes the importance of morality but in the Old West, the rules of engagement were different, and life could be exceedingly difficult.

I was fascinated to learn about the Earp family, particularly Wyatt’s brothers Virgil (1843-1905) and Morgan (1851-1882), both of whom were present during the famous shootout with Clanton’s gang. The Earp family story is surreal, and I found myself glued to the book as the Old West came alive. But I also began to see that the Earps were not as “righteous” as we may have been led to believe. They are best known as lawmen but did not always wear badges. And their actions at times during the story are far from law-abiding. Brothels which were a staple of Old West lore, weigh heavily in the story. The “ladies of the night” had both customers and partners, making the Earp story even more convoluted. Added to this are Wyatt’s love life and his nomadic movements across North America. The book evolves into a roller coaster ride as Wyatt leaves one town for the next. But during one stop he met a man who became a life-long friend and legend in the Old West himself, John Henry “Doc” Holliday (1852-1887). And on October 26, 1881, the Earp brothers and Holliday became legends of the Old West in a shootout that history could not get enough of.

If you decide to read this book, you may be asking yourself what really happened at the O.K. Corral? It lasted less than a minute, was deadly and the result of a feud. The conflict is discussed by the author and is thorough, but I also had the feeling that there was more to the story. Of course, none of the participants are alive and surely took to the grave, smaller details they knew about why the shooting took place. The real-life gun battle had none of the flair and slow-motion of Hollywood. It was fast, vicious, and left people shaken. And it was far from the end of the Clanton-Earp saga which continued to play out well after the shootout. The drama is also discussed within, and at times I felt that it would never end between Clanton and the Earps.

Following the deadly shootout, further tragedy occurs in the book, and Wyatt is forced to confront the deaths of those closest to him. However, his relationship with Holliday becomes a little unusual, and left me slightly puzzled at what happened. Of course, no explanation will be forthcoming, and it is known that Wyatt visited Holliday before the latter succumbed to the tuberculosis that plagued him. Wyatt eventually made his departure from Tombstone and caught the attention of Hollywood. And it is here that the legend was born. In his final years, he was living with his common-law wife, but the drama surrounding his union with Josephine “Sadie” Earp (1861-1944) is crazy but also in line with Earp’s history. And there are also the tragedies of his first wife Urilla Sutherland Earp (1850-1870) and second wife by common law, Cecilia Ann “Mattie” Blaylock (1850-1888). Wyatt lived an unorthodox life. But is life truly “normal” for any of us?

The shootout at the O.K. Corral is forever linked with Earp, Holliday and Clanton names, and Wyatt continues to be seen as a lawman of the Old West. This book is a thorough account of his time of earth, and it encouraged me to explore other biographies about the famed gunslinger. But I wondered if he was a hero, villain, pimp, degenerate, murderer, or opportunist? The truth is complex and nowhere as glamorous as Hollywood productions but it was the life he led. But this is only my opinion. You can be the judge.

ASIN ‏ : ‎ B009LRWHV8
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Hill and Wang; 1st edition (August 6, 2024)

Harriet Tubman: The Road to Freedom – Catherine Clinton

On February 11, 2025February 11, 2025 By Genyc79In BiographiesLeave a comment

The Merriam Webster dictionary defines courage as the mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty. This definition applies unquestionably to Araminta Ross, better known as Harriet Tubman (1822-1913), whose efforts on what is known as the “Underground Railroad” helped change the fates of enslaved and free blacks across America as the nation grappled with the issue of human bondage. When I saw this book in a list of recommendations, I instantly made the purchase and felt my curiosity increase. In grade school, I learned about Harriet Tubman, but the passage of time and a limited curriculum, left me with a lack of factual information which I found in this gripping biography by author Catherine Clinton.

The lack of knowledge regarding Tubman’s life increased my anticipation as I began to read the book. And from the beginning, I found myself glued to it as I learned about the life of a woman who took courage to a whole new level. Her story begins in Dorchester County, Maryland in 1822 when she is born into an enslaved family. And like other enslaved people, birth records and other vital information are typically incomplete. Added to the confusion is the lack of literacy, a tool commonly used by slaveowners. This afflicted Tubman as well, but it later proved to have its advantages, as we see in the story when her work on the Underground Railroad intensified.

Readers who are sensitive to the subject of slavery and its horrors may find parts of the story upsetting. However, it is a part of American history which can never be erased. Further, the dark moments in the book eventually pave the way for the triumphs later in the story. In 1849, she finally made her escape north, but at the time she was married to her first husband John Tubman (d. 1867). The circumstances surrounding their union are interesting and highlight the complexities enslaved and freed men and women faced in trying to find love. The story of their union is both tragic and shocking, and the author returns to John later in the story after Harriet finds her calling.

The Fugitive Slave Act of 1850 sent alarm bells ringing across America and forced slaves to realize that crossing into free territory was not enough. Harriet understood the implications and began to master the art of subterfuge. But before she changes gears, the story moves to Canada, where Tubman finds solace. However, the country was not without racial prejudice, and the author pulls no punches about the difficulties former slaves faced as they escaped north. For Harriet, her own freedom was not enough, and she became determined to bring down the system of slavery across America, much like her acquaintance and fellow abolitionist John Brown (1800-1859), who makes an appearance in the book. And it is at this point that the legend is born and the story kicks into high gear. Readers will see why she was nicknamed “Moses”.

In Auburn, New York, she was able to make a home for herself due to the actions of former Secretary of State William Seward (1801-1872) who became a lifelong friend. And once she embraced her role as a “conductor” on the Underground Railroad, things are never the same. The story is unbelievable and the courage she had is nothing short of incredible. Frankly, she was fearless and demonstrated this repeatedly in the story. The author brings her actions to life in a vivid but smooth narrative that maintains the right pace and suspense as former slaves are ushered out of the South in search of life as free men and women. But though Tubman had success in her missions, she did pay a heavy price in the form of personal sacrifice, both physically and emotionally. Her reunion with John later in life does not go as planned and leaves her devastated. But a successful reunion with her parents is a high point in the book which is a roller coaster ride until the very end.

Because the book is set during the 1800s, we know the American Civil War will become a part of the narrative and here is no different. But what is incredibly heartwarming are her actions in service to the Union as the war against the Confederacy raged. The conflict was beyond brutal, and its graphic nature is on display here. Tubman’s view of President Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865) is interesting, although the two never met. I wish they had for that would have been quite the discussion. Nevertheless, Lincoln’s death was a shock to her as it was to millions of Americans. The war had ended in April 1865, but the fight for equality and respect was still on. Tubman continued to serve the people and later in life she reaped the benefits, and even finds a new companion Pvt. Nelson C. Davis (1844-1888) who provides her with a sense of normalcy after her days on the Underground Railroad are over. And when she is called home to rest, the conclusion marks the end of a story that left me inspired and speechless. The Underground Railroad was a complex network of locations, resources, and people both black and white who were united in their belief that slavery must end. Harriet Tubman was part of the apparatus that kept it running and on time. This book is a gift that will keep on giving.

“If you are tired, keep going; if you are scared, keep going; if you are hungry, keep going; if you want to taste freedom, keep going.” – Harriet Tubman (1822-1913)

ASIN ‏ : ‎ B000FC1AN4
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Little, Brown and Company; 1st edition (February 2, 2004)

The President and the Freedom Fighter : Abraham Lincoln, Frederick Douglass, and Their Battle to Save America’s Soul- Brian Kilmeade

On February 9, 2025February 9, 2025 By Genyc79In Civil WarLeave a comment

On December 6, 1865, Congress ratified the Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution, which marked the end to slavery and indentured servitude in the United States. President Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865) had approved the version presented before in January of that year but did not live to see it ratified, having been assassinated at Ford’s Theater on April 14, 1865. The ratification of the amendment was a bittersweet vindication of Lincoln and a former slave who became one of America’s strongest voices for abolition. Frederick Douglass (1818-1895) outlived Lincoln by thirty years but remained committed to the goal of equality and an America representative of all its inhabitants. This book is the story of their lives, friendship and the issue of slavery, over which America pulled itself apart.

This book is a not a standard biography of either Lincoln or Douglass, but author Brian Kilmeade does provide enough background information to give readers a solid understanding of their beginnings which stand in stark contrast. Lincoln, who was born free as a White American, was the extreme opposite of Douglass who was born enslaved in Maryland. But as they both matured, America began to go through a metamorphosis and each man would find his calling in pushing the nation forward. However, to appreciate the crossing of their paths in life, Kilmeade moves back and forth between he key events which shaped their views of America and their purposes in life.

Although the book is not a standard biography of either figure, I did find a wealth of information in the book. And for readers who are well read on both, Kilmeade’s narrative can still be of value. While reading the book I could see the importance in the contrast between Douglass and Lincoln setting the stage for future events. And this is a strong aspect of the book. Each man came to detest slavery but through extremely different paths. Lincoln would use the courts and politics, but Douglass’s journey was far more difficult and dangerous and would take him through abolitionist circles which results in the appearance of notable historical figures in the story which heightens the suspense.

Any story regarding Federick Douglass is incomplete without mention of William Lloyd Garrison (1805-1879), a staunch abolitionist and strong influence in Douglass’s life, and the abolitionist John Brown (1800-1859). Each man plays a significant role in the book, and Brown’s story is fascinating on its own. He remains both famous and infamous depending on who you ask. However, we cannot deny the impact of his raid on the Harper’s Ferry federal arsenal in 1859. That event sent shockwaves across the United States and might have been far more deadly if other noted abolitionists had stood behind Brown’s actions. The relationship between Brown and Douglass is a moving part of the story and highlights the difference between conviction and recklessness.

While the abolitionists are fighting the battle against slavery in public, Lincoln comes into his own as a politician with a bright future. His rise to fame in what became the Republican Party is part of the story as well, and what we witness is an odyssey taking place as Lincoln’s views on slavery are challenged and changed. And part of that progression was his relationship with Douglass, which is the crux of the book. As a history lover, I thoroughly enjoyed this part of the story. Of course, we cannot ignore the “elephant in the room” which is the looming American Civil War. The buildup is part of the account, particularly the growing resentment in South Carolina when it becomes clear that Lincoln is the favorite to win the 1860 presidential election. His victory that November was seen as proof by the newly formed Confederate States of America in January 1861 that secession was the only option. And on April 21, 1861, the first shots of the war were fired, sending America into darkness for the next four years. For Douglass and Lincoln, the conflict brought them closer together and saw the end of their friendship.

As the war heats up, both men are watching with uneasiness as Confederate forces prove to be tougher than expected. The Union needed an advantage and here is another crucial part of the story when the subject of black fighting units takes center stage. Ironically, the idea of colored troops caused division as deeply as the war itself. In hindsight we know that the Union eventually formed units of black soldiers who performed equally as courageous as white troops. The saga of the Union’s colored soldiers is captured with grace and respect by the author who has given us a valuable book regarding a dark time in American history. In April 1865, the war comes to a bloody end, but Douglass’s story is not yet finished. And the South was determined to rise again.

Following the war, the story continues with Douglass’s life and the changes he endured as America was altered for better and worse. Reconstruction, Jim Crow, and southern resentment would affect the lives of Black Americans for decades to come. Douglass remained steadfast in the movement for civil rights, but he could not escape father time and makes his departure from the story in 1895. Both men were gone but their legacies were cemented in history. And through books like this we can step back in time to revisit an era when America was at a crossroads with morality, technology, and the very constitution our nation is founded on. There are tragic moments in the book, but it is a story which provides enlightenment, humility and an appreciation for the things we take for granted. Highly recommended.

ASIN ‏ : ‎ B08Z7RC9N6
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Sentinel (November 2, 2021)

The Hillside Stranglers: The Inside Story of the Killing Spree That Terrorized Los Angeles – Darcy O’Brien

On February 1, 2025 By Genyc79In UncategorizedLeave a comment

During the 1970s and 1980s, the City of Los Angeles became home to some of the most notorious serial killers in American history. Serial murder was not a new concept, but the Robbery Homicide Division of the Los Angeles Police Department had its hands full as death spread across the City of Angels. Among these notorious killers were two cousins originally from Rochester, New York, who turned Los Angeles into a hunting ground and became known to the public as the Hillside Stranglers. Angelo Buono, Jr. (1934-2002) and Kenneth Bianci unleashed a wave of terror across Southern California as they lived out their sadistic fantasies. Their convictions and imprisonment were a relief to the people of Los Angeles, but their story is more extensive than the infamous crimes. Award-winning author Darcy O’Brien looks at the story in this book that is chilling, haunting, and true crime at its best.

Before continuing, readers should be aware that the descriptions of crimes committed by Buono and Bianci by the author are graphic and will be upsetting to readers sensitive to true crime material. I winced several times as I read the details of their crime spree, and I typically have a strong constitution regarding the subject matter. Franky, the story is not for everyone. But I also understood that the severity of their crimes could not have been told any other way and the text by O’Brien drives that point home. The real-life events which transpired across Los Angeles were far more brutal in nature and I can only imagine the terror and physical pain the victims felt at the hands of the merciless killers. At one point it felt as if the two were invincible, but the LAPD assigned its best to the case and the two detectives who stand out in the story are storied investigators Frank Salerno and Bob Grogan. The case would prove to haunt everyone involved, and Grogan’s life goes through a transformation of its own as the book progresses. But at no point does he waver in his determination to catch the murderers.

In between the crime spree and detectives’ investigation, we also learn the back stories of Buono and Bianci. Their roots are in my home state of New York, but their crimes consumed the West Coast. The dysfunction of both, combined with criminal activity and psychopathic tendencies, set the stage for the darkness to engulf Los Angeles. Buono’s life is nothing short of mind-bending, and Bianci’s was not much better. I soon realized that they were dangerous many years before the string of murders. In the beginning of the book Buono is residing by himself and Bianci later joins him after moving to the West Coast. And what develops is a co-dependence which functions on anarchy. It would have deadly consequences for the young women of Southern California.

The story of their crimes is shocking enough but added to this is that both fathered children of their own. And that casts an even darker cloud over the story which descends into further insanity with each passing crime. But a decision by Bianci to leave the Los Angeles area after detectives begin to suspect the two, would have life-altering consequences for the two and prove to be the first stage of failure of the Hillside Stranglers. Seeking to reconcile with the mother of his son, Bianci relocated to Bellingham, Washington. At first, there seems to be the sense that he has found a new life and escaped justice. But as we soon see, Bianci was nowhere close to reformation and soon turned Bellingham upside down and caught the attention of the LAPD.

Once the investigation heats up, the graphic descriptions of the crimes begin to subside. The focus shifts to police work and this part of the book pulled me in as Grogan and other homicide detectives begin to piece together the disturbing actions of Buono and Bianci, the latter of which helps blow the case open. But before that happens, a charade of multiple personalities takes place with the added component of a stolen identity. Added to the circus is the groupie Veronica Compton, who landed an extensive prison sentence of her down due to unwavering devotion to the incarcerated Bianci. The story is surreal and makes one wonder how people become enamored with the darkest segments of society.

Buono’s subsequent arrest and the trial of both consume the remainder of the book, and it is also a roller coaster ride. The actions by the district attorney, defense counsel and even a juror left me wondering about the merits of the criminal justice system. However, there is a voice of reason in Judge Ronald M. George who issues a critical ruling on a motion which changed the course of the trial. And despite the evidence, prosecutors still had to prove their case which they do and secure a conviction for both. The jury had its own issues as explained in the book, and it reminded me of the problems that arise when people are sequestered for extended periods of time. As the trial reached its conclusion, I also felt relieved even though it is 2025 and I am nowhere close to Los Angeles. The book kept me glued to its pages even though I previously knew who Buono and Bianci were and was aware of other aspects of the case. While reading, I could easily picture Los Angeles and feel the suspense gripping the streets. I have previously visited the city and told my fiancé at the time that I felt a strange vibe there but could not explain it fully. Part of the feeling was that I was aware that Los Angeles has a very dark side to it.

The case of the Hillside Stranglers concluded forty-one years ago and Bianci remains in prison, but their legacy remains a haunting reminder of the dangers which lurk all around us necessitating vigilance and the dedication of the people of law enforcement. Hollywood has attempted to capture the crimes of the stranglers for the silver screen with both a television drama called ‘The Case of Hillside Stranglers‘ (1989) and motion picture called ‘The Hillside Strangler‘ (2004), but their story, as told here, will stay with you long after you have finished this book.

ASIN ‏ : ‎ B00KQZY3LQ
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Open Road Media (July 1, 2014)

The Andy Warhol Diaries – Andy Warhol and Pat Hackett

On January 30, 2025January 30, 2025 By Genyc79In Journal2 Comments

This statement may be bold, but there will never be another Andrew Warhola (1928-1987), known to the world as Andy Warhol. The undisputed king of pop art remains an iconic figure, vividly remembered for his bright colored wigs, thin frame, and soft-spoken nature. He seemed to be everywhere and knew everyone and was firmly entrenched in popular social circles. But behind the fame, there was a different Andy, misunderstood and overlooked. Several years before his death, Warhol asked his close friend Pat Hackett to help in transcribing his personal diaries. The pages totaled over twenty thousand but were condensed by Hackett into a final product suitable for publishing. This Kindle version is condensed slightly further but it is still an impressive eight-hundred forty-two pages which cover the years 1976 to 1987. Warhol died on February 22, 1987, following surgery to have his gallbladder removed, which explains the abrupt ending of the diaries. However, there is more than enough material in the book to satisfy Warhol fans.

The book is not a biography at all. Warhol does mention family members but only regarding the day’s diary entry. This is a collection of daily observations about work, friends, the New York City nightlife, and his inner struggles. If you watched the Netflix series ‘The Andy Warhol Diaries’, then this book will feel like closure. I watched the docuseries and thought it was one of the best Netflix has released. Of course, the producers could have added more material because Andy’s life was a non-stop show which reached a heartbreaking conclusion. But surprisingly, in the diaries, Andy himself is not the over-the-top eccentric character you might expect. In fact, those around him steal the show and what Andy recorded is nothing short of wild. His diaries also confirm that the lifestyles of the rich and famous are sometimes out of control.

As the diaries progress, we become familiar with Andy’s social circle which consist of fashion designer Halston (1932-1990) and boyfriend Victor Hugo (1948-1994), author Truman Capote (1924-1984), rockstar Mick and wife Bianca Jagger, fashion columnist Diane Vreeland (1903-1989), Interview editor Bob Colacello, and fashion designer Diane von Furstenberg. I did notice that Jed Johnson (1948-1996) is rarely mentioned. Johnson’s role as an employee at Warhol’s Union Square office and love interest following the 1968 shooting of Andy by Valerie Solanis (1936-1988) that nearly killed him, naturally gave me the expectation to read more about his life with Warhol. However, that is not the case here. Jed is mentioned but in passing, and the most significant entry is when he moves out of their place in December 1980. Understandably, the end of their relationship was difficult for Warhol and whether he omitted Johnson intentionally or whether Hackett left those pages out at his request I do not know. Jed is discussed extensively in the Netflix docuseries.

Readers will notice that early in the day, the diary entries are mundane but as night falls, and New York City comes to life, the entries heat up as the gang meets up for nights of mayhem with the famed Studio 54 being their home base. The entries are unreal, and yes, there are copious amounts of drugs, alcohol, and debauchery. Frankly, if you know anything about Warhol and his crew, then the diaries are everything you expect. Some are more extreme than others, but each has his or her own set of problems making the narrative more intriguing. Andy’s observations are revealing and humorous. They were stars but as we see, their personal lives were all over the place. Andy’s diaries reveal the human side of people known to the public through a carefully crafted image. The veil is lifted here to reveal their fears, anger, concerns, and moments of reflection. But of all the people he discussed, Victor Hugo stands out as the most outrageous rascal of the bunch. He was an exciting, daring, obscene yet tragic figure whose own story is a discussion for another time.

After Jed moves out, Andy finds himself in a sunken place, but he finds a new crush in Paramount movie executive Jon Gould (1953-1986). There is not much of a story here except for random entries by Andy discussing their phone calls, infrequent times together and where their relationship was going. However, Andy does say that Gould had asked him to be kept out of the diaries, and that may be the explanation for the lack of material. But this results in more confusion about the nature of their relationship which seems to have been asexual. And when Gould becomes the latest victim to a deadly new virus spreading among gay men, the wedge between them began to grow.

As Andy details his daily routine, travels abroad and escapades at night, we also see that he fears the virus originally termed the “gay cancer”. Warhol did not contract the virus himself due to his lack of sexual activity. In fact, in one diary entry, he flatly states that he “does not do anything”. He was idle but the virus was all around him and after Gould’s admission to New York Hospital in 1984 for pneumonia, Andy gave instructions to his housekeeper which are explained in the diary, which highlights his fear of the mysterious virus. While I read of the demise of close friends and famous stars who had contracted HIV, I found myself transported back in time to re-live the shock I had when the news broke of those stories. It was a dark time, and no one who lived through the 1980s will ever forget the shock of HIV and AIDS. Andy was spared HIV, but he had his own health battles which rise to the surface in the book. His notorious gallbladder, which resulted in that fateful surgery in February 1987, was not a sudden illness. There are multiple diary entries in which he discusses the problem and his diet, which was not very friendly towards it. And his alcohol consumption only added fuel to the fire. Warhol was aware of this and pokes fun at himself and acknowledges when he is falling short of where he should be. And despite his fame, endless list of friends and acquaintances, intimacy was missing. Had he lived, would Andy have found true love? We will never know.

These diaries are a roller coaster ride and a trip down memory lane. The book is full of guest appearances and steps back in time to the 1980s art scene where young ambitious creators such as Keith Haring (1958-1990) and Jean-Michel Basquiat (1960-1988) were making their names known. Andy talks about both, with strong focus on his relationship with Jean-Michel whose drug use was an issue for many years prior to his sudden death. I did notice the affinity Warhol had for Basquiat’s mother and her island cuisine. Readers interested in the lives of both will enjoy Brad Gooch’s ‘Radiant: The Life and Line of Keith Haring‘ and Phoebe Hoban’s ‘Basquiat: A Quick Killing in Art‘. Here they each play a part in Andy’s life, along with the others who compose the cast of characters entrenched in the world of Andy Warhol. Colacello also wrote about his time with Andy in ‘Holy Terror: Andy Warhol Up Close‘. Andy’s notes and comments force us to confront the realities of fame, tragedy, race, creativity, and mortality. Warhol was brilliant at watching and creating, and social media would have been heaven on earth for him. For us older readers, these diaries are the old school version of today’s platforms known as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Andy Warhol was one of a kind. This book is far from short, but if you want to know more about Andy Warhol and the people in his world, this is highly recommended.

ASIN ‏ : ‎ B002WAUVQ4
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Grand Central Publishing (November 11, 2009)

Perón – Joseph A. Page

On January 18, 2025 By Genyc79In BiographiesLeave a comment

peron An old friend once said to me that in Argentina “it is rare for a non-Peronist president to finish a full term”. The remarked surprised me at first but then I thought of the late Juan Domingo Perón (1895-1974) who served as Argentina’s president three times. His final term was short-lived due to his death on July 1, 1974, in Buenos Aires. Today the country is under the leadership of Javier Milei who famously raised a chainsaw on the campaign trail as he promised to slash government spending. Time will tell if Milei’s approach is the right course, but no leader can move Argentina forward without acknowledging the influence of Perón. This biography was on the list of recommendations I regularly receive and immediately caught my attention. And what I found is a well-researched, well-written and engaging account of Perón’s life and the turbulent political history of Argentina.

During one of my visits to Argentina, I had the opportunity to witness a discussion regarding Perón’s legacy. The participants were people I met through a mutual friend and had come over for dinner. The conversation quickly grew tense with both sides digging into their respective positions. As the only American in the group, I realized that it was imperative for me to listen and refrain from speaking. I was in their country and needed to hear their history as they knew it. And I saw firsthand how Perón had shaped the lives and minds of Argentines decades after his passing. Of course, the discussion was far from the final analysis on the legacy of Juan Perón. But it did provide me with crucial insight, and I relied on those memories as I began to read this definitive biography.

Although I strongly recommend some research into Perón’s presidency beforehand, it is not required to enjoy this book. The author provides a discussion of Argentine history which readers will find fascinating. Included in the discussion is the election of Hipólito Yrigoyen (1852-1933), who famously became known as “the father of the poor” and the first democratically elected president. As the story moves forward, we are introduced to the Perón family and patriarch Mario Tomás Perón. The story is typical of South America at that time but when Juan decides on a military career over medicine or law, his life and that of Argentines was destined for change. There is nothing about military career which stands out in the book, but he did find time for love and walks down the aisle with Aurelia Tizón (1908-1938) in 1929. Their union is happy but short-lived, and her death serves as an eerie premonition for what would later come in 1952.

Perón moves through the ranks steadily but before he reaches the pinnacle, the world is forced to confront the growing Nazi threat from the Third Reich in Berlin. The outbreak of World War II set the world ablaze, but it also placed Argentina in a difficult position. The information contained here is crucial for it explains the long and difficult path Argentina and America have traveled together. Neutrality, escaping Nazi leaders and the looming Cold War stirred tensions between the two nations. Page provides a wealth of information to provide the reader with a thorough picture of what happened and why. Further, the impact of former U.S. Ambassador to Argentina Spruille Braden (1894-1978) cannot be overlooked. His battles with Perón are a significant aspect of the relationship between Washington, D.C. and Buenos Aires.

In 1945, both Germany and Japan surrendered ending World War II. On the domestic front, Perón’s had ascended to the leadership position of the nation and his changes once again when Maria Eva Duarte de Perón (1919-1952) enters the story and becomes the most popular First Lady in Argentina’s history. On her own, Eva Perón is a fascinating figure, and there are books, a play, and a movie about her life. However, the focus here is on Juan and his rise to power. We do learn about their private life, and the dedication Eva had for him. Although it is not clear when she developed the condition that claimed her life, there are clues in the story. But what is definite is that both Juan and Eva both knew that something was terribly wrong with her health. The author explains the developing tragedy with the right amount of tact, making sure to keep Juan as the focus of the book but giving enough attention to Eva’s struggles with her own mortality. Readers who want to know more about her life will find ‘Evita: The Real Life of Eva Perón ‘ by Nicholas Fraser and Marysa Navarro to be a fair starting point. We can see that the end is coming and the final scene in her life plays out as one would expect, devastating Juan and the nation. But there is more to her death and the movement of her casket post-mortem between multiple countries is a surreal and nightmarish story on its own as readers will learn.

Though in mourning, Juan’s problems were only beginning, and domestic tensions continue to brew. The buildup of the opposition forces to Perón’s reign is captivating, and the stage is soon set for his exile which lasted an overwhelming seventeen years. His defiance and exodus play out like a major motion picture with suspense, tragedy and emotions running rampant. But what Argentines could not have known was that Perón would come back and take control of the country. His time in exile is equally fascinating, and we follow him through South America, the Caribbean, and Spain where he established long-term residency. In each country, Perón is a guest but also witness to history as coups and political violent take place time after time necessitating a quick exit by the former Argentine president. Students of Latin American history will find this section of the book to be intriguing and Venezuela stands out due to current day events.

Perón’s time in Spain is uneventful, however he soon finds third wife Isabel Martínez de Perón, who is still alive today. Their marriage provided Juan with a boost in image which had been severely damaged through the scandal involving teenager Nelly Rivas (1939-2012). Perón denied any improper behavior regarding their relationship but as shown in the book, there was more to the story. You can be the judge. Isabel’s entry in the picture sealed any hope of Rivas finding her way to Juan and the “Conductor” as Perón was informally known, set his sights on his native land and the throne he once claimed. And thus, the stage is soon set for his triumphant return to Argentina. But before I go further, it is necessary to mention a figure in the story whose name is still obscure. When I read of José López Rega (1916-1989) I could not recall any information I had previously come across to explain his role. However, Page solves that issue and Rega’s involvement in the life of Juan and Isabel is both mystifying and absurd. He was a character out of central casting, but his influence could not be denied. His rise and fall are covered here and provide an interesting and unbelievable sub-story to the main narrative.

The return of Perón to Argentina plays out as readers will expect, with flair and drama. But what is more important are the incidents which took place preceding his return and allowed for his next presidency. Anyone who knows Argentine politics will understand the short-lived tenures of numerous presidents and military rule to stabilize the country. Page does not go into the “disappeared” which is a dark and unsettling time in Argentina’s history. But as someone who has visited the country, those who were taken in the 1970s never to be seen again have not been forgotten, and the era continues to haunt the nation. The downfall of presidents, military actions and vitriol used by political candidates provides a roller coaster ride that the author takes us through. The story is surreal at times but also a reminder of the fragility of democracy. Argentines who lived through these times have stories they can tell you, and the emotion with which they speak will say more than their words.

After making his return to Argentina and the presidency, Perón’s life moves toward its conclusion as his health issues become more frequent and serious in nature. Curiously, the Central Intelligence Agency had been keeping reports on the matter and their findings are included in the story. It will be clear to readers that the end is coming and that Perón is slipping away. And on July 1, 1974, the finale plays out bringing the conductor’s life to an end. However, stepping in to fill the void is wife Isabel who becomes the next president. Her time in office is short-lived and a coup forces her into exile as well marking the end of the Perón presidency. And like a house of cards, those close to him fall out of favor and make their exit from the stage. Perón was gone but Argentina was nowhere close to a strong democracy and would go through political and social unrest more than once which threatened to turn the country on its head. Today Argentina is once again at a crossroads but hopefully this is the right turn to move forward and put the errors of the past to rest. If you want to know about Juan Perón, the charismatic yet unorthodox former leader of Argentina, this is must-read.

ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0BWRJ1Z69
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Open Road Media (April 4, 2023)

John Quincy Adams – Harlow Giles Unger

On January 6, 2025 By Genyc79In BiographiesLeave a comment

quincy

Every time I visit New England, I am amazed at the amount of history one can discover. My trips to Vermont, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Maine, and Massachusetts have all left a mark as I learned more about the country in which I was born. However, there is still American history I have to learn, and when I saw this biography of former President John Quincy Adams (1767-1848), my curiosity piqued and I knew I had to read it. And what I found is a story every American should know, and we have author Harlow Giles Unger to thank for this remarkable biography of a president who is underrated.

Before starting the book, I was aware of Quincy’s time in office but my knowledge of his personal life and contributions to America’s development was in insufficient. I felt as if I was reading about him for the first time, which deepened my interest and enhanced my shock as I learned of his incredible life. The story begins in Braintree, Massachusetts in July 1767, when Quincy as he is known, is born to John Adams (1735-1826) and wife Abigail (1744-1818). His father served as the nation’s second president and was instrumental in his son’s personal life and political career. I noticed early in the story that Quincy had a strong bond with his parents which proved to be the foundation he needed throughout his journey. But the family was fiercely committed to education and self-improvement, themes which remained with Quincy for life.

Unger’s writing style kept me glued to the pages from beginning to end, and the narrative has an exceptionally smooth flow which maintains a steady pace as Quincy’s life moves forward. Within the first ten years of life, resistance against Britain intensified and culminated with the American Revolution for independence. The conflict, discussed in the book and witnessed by Quincy, had a profound impact on him. Although he was too young to fight the British, he witnessed the importance of independence and sacrifices by patriots resisting British rule. As he ages, the story shifts gears when he attempts to gain admission to Harvard. The saga surrounding his admission is interesting and resembles modern-day anxiety and struggles by students seeking entry into ivy-league institutions. In hindsight, we know he eventually did gain admission, and went on to complete law school. However, the legal field was not all it was thought to be but everything in the book changes when he is selected for government service by President George Washington (1732-1799).

Washington’s offer to Quincy to become America’s Minister to Holland, comes as a surprise but with the urging of his father, he accepts and embarks on a European journey that changes his life permanently. And while America had gained its independence, Europe was still embroiled in revolution and chaos. The unrest across the continent takes center stage, in particular France during the reign of King Louis XVI (1754-1793), who was overthrown and beheaded in 1793. Several years later, another ruler ascends to the throne and forces the world to recognize the name of Napoleon Bonaparte (1769-1821). He also appears later in the story as the United States expands to the south and west across North America. But there is another component to France’s story in the form of its raging war against England. I could not stop reading as the crisis plays out and challenges America’s foreign policy. What transpires is an eerie premonition of future events in which France requested United States involvement. There is also the issue of the British who have not forgotten the loss if England’s thirteen colonies. Their acts of aggression and the American response show how close we came to war with Britain for a second time.

During the period of 1974 to 1817, Adams traveled around Europe through government positions, and the details of each are too extensive to discuss here. The details are in the book and the stories are fascinating. He developed a lifetime of experience at a very young age but also found time for love which resulted in his marriage to Louisa Catherine Johnson (1775-1852) on July 26, 1797. Their story is wholesome but the personal tragedies within the Adams family are heartbreaking. It seems for every success there was an equal tragedy which Quincy and Louisa are forced to confront. There are also issues within her family as well, emanating from her father Joshua who causes grief and chaos through his own financial failures. But destiny was waiting for Quincy and his return home in 1817 proved to be the change he needed.

In 1817, President James Monroe (1758-1831) chose Quincy to be his Secretary of State. This decision had monumental ramifications for Adams personally and the political landscape of America. His effectiveness did not go unnoticed, and history buffs will instantly think of the Monroe Doctrine, which is discussed by the author. Quincy’s star continues to rise and rumors about a presidential campaign soon begin. Curiously, Louisa is not at all thrilled by Washington, and the description of the city by Unger leaves much to be desired. The physical state of Washington seems unthinkable today, but in the 1800s, it was the reality. In 1825, fate intervened, placing Adams in the White House for a single term. And instantly, opponents and opportunists move behind the scenes to secure their own political ambitions. It becomes clear that politics was never for the faint of the heart. The actions of Henry Clay (1777-1852) and John C. Calhoun (1782-1850) are questionable to say the least.

dams’ tenure in the White House is uneventful but opposing forces soon begin to form, throwing their weight behind Andrew Jackson (1767-1845). And it is here that we see the groundwork for the two political parties which dominate American politics today. Jackson is a controversial figure, and Adams was no fan. In fact, his comments about Jackson are similar to others who could not envision the “rascal” or “illiterate” in the White House. But that is exactly what happened. Quincy took his loss in stride but was far from finished with politics. And as a member of the House of Representatives he made his voice loud and clear as he argued for causes which lacked popular support. I found this part of his story incredibly interesting and as it continues, Adams becomes more outspoken about his convictions which provoke censorship. His anti-slavery stance drew the wrath of pro-slavery congressmen and highlights the hotly contested matter of human bondage.

The outspoken congressman was forcing America to examine its moral fabric, and this won him more support than opposition. And as a gift from above, he finds himself involved in a legal case involving the Portuguese vessel Amistad, manned by slave hunters who had kidnapped Africans from Sierra Leone for transport to Cuba. Mutiny occurred and when it was over, the captain and crew lay dead. The slaves were arrested and sent ashore to the United States where they were tried in court. Adams takes up their defense and his legal training kicks into a high gear as he puts on a master class in what is known as oral argument in the legal field. Today it may absurd that a legal argument over kidnapped human beings was needed, but in 1839, slavery was both legal and encourage in parts of the world. The case and its conclusion cemented his legacy as a champion of human rights.

Behind the scenes, Quincy and Louisa go through their trials and tribulations with brief periods of distance. But she knew she could not keep him down. By January 1848, his health had significantly declined, but staying home was not an option. On February 23, he made his way to the Capitol as usual, but this day would not end like the others. In fact, what happened during the afternoon session left me speechless. But after reading the book, I could not see Adams departing any other way. He lived and died for the success and progression of the United States of America. Today he would be called “liberal” and “progressive” but in his time he was an advocate for the things we still debate today. The amount of research required for this book could only have been staggering. The author’s beautifully compiled narrative is seductive from start to finish, and at no point in the book did I lose interest. I could not put it down and found myself eager to read more regardless of the time or location. If you are in search of a delightful book about an outstanding leader in America’s past, this is strongly recommended.

“It is of no use to discover our own faults and infirmities unless the discovery prompts up to amendment.”- John Quincy Adams

ASIN ‏ : ‎ B008EMEH5A
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Da Capo Press (September 4, 2012)

The Assassination of Maurice Bishop – Godfrey P. Smith

On January 1, 2025 By Genyc79In Biographies, Investigative Report1 Comment

Maurice

The 1980s was a decade unlike any other, both positive and negative. Hollywood had reached its pinnacle with movies that became eternal classics, the Soviet Union began its decline, NASA experienced a tragedy that haunts us today, and change was rapidly occurring around the world. The Caribbean island of Grenada had a population of less than 100,000 people in the month of October 1983. It is seen as a small island. But on October 19, 1983, that island made news around the world when the leader of the ruling New Jewel Movement (“NJM”), Maurice Rupert Bishop (1944-1984) was assassinated along with several others in a violent coup which plunged the country in chaos and resulted in the deployment of United States Marines by United States President Ronald Reagan (1911-2004). The involvement of American troops has overshadowed the events leading up to the events on October 19. But in order to understand Bishop’s downfall and its aftermath, a discussion regarding the events leading up to the tragedy is necessary. Godfrey Smith, a Belizean journalist, revisits the death of Bishop and the political climate in Grenada, in this book which is both informative and chilling.

Godfrey’s book is less than two hundred pages, but its contents tell a story that gave me a new perspective on the events in Grenada during that time. From the beginning, there is a dark omen over the story due to a meeting of the Central Committee which would have extensive ramifications. However, the subject of the meeting does not appear at first to be something that should have resulted in the death of Bishop and others. But a sad reality is that power is seductive and it corrupts. In the meeting of the Central Committee it is suggested that Bishop shares the duties of leader with Bernard Coard, second in command. The meeting expands into criticism of Bishop’s ruling style, but the matter is put on hold as Bishop wants to think about the party’s future and obtain Coard’s input. Coard was not present, and the talking is done by others. But this meeting would set into motion a chain of events that brought Grenada to the brink of anarchy.

Before we reach the fallout in October 1983, Godfrey provides a short biography of Bishop’s life and his rise in politics. It is a fascinating story, and easy to see why Bishop became the people’s favorite. However, he had his demons like other leaders. We learn of Bishop’s nonchalant manner in handling party issues, and his philandering which became an issue as his personal life became more complicated. His weaknesses provided the pretext needed for subordinates to usurp his authority. But they were not serious enough for death. The question that arises in what happened that caused the Central Committee to remove Bishop by force? The answer partly lies in a trip abroad that should have been routine.

The NJM had established itself as a left-wing government. Further, it had formed closed relations with Caribbean neighbor Cuba through its President Fidel Castro (1926-2016). This should come as no surprise because the NJM was based on Marxist-Leninist ideals and naturally aligned itself with nations founded on similar principles. But Washington was watching closely, and Bishop’s growing ties to Castro did not go unnoticed at home. In fact, as we see in the story, it backfired with deadly consequences. It also raised the issue of how much influence Cuba should have in Grenada’s affairs. Internally, Bishop’s avoidance of the bi-lateral power sharing agreement, planted the seeds of doubt in the minds of people who believed he needed to be removed. The fear of a tyrant was fresh in their minds due to the removal of a former president whose name is rarely mentioned in world history.

As a backstory to the fallout between Bishop and party leaders, we learn of the toppling of Prime Minister Eric Gairy (1922-1997) who was viewed as a dictator. For readers unaware of Gairy’s reign, this is a good primer. Of course, the full story is far more detailed, but for the purposes of this book, the amount of information is sufficient to set the stage for Bishop’s future battle within his own party. His trip abroad which included a visit to Cuba, set the stage for the conspirators to enact their plan. And when the party does meet with Bishop who is reluctant to change the power structure, we see the writing on the wall. A secret meeting without his knowledge proves to be a warning that something was not right. The moment we are waiting for eventually comes when Bishop and others are detained. But the conspirators did not anticipate that the people of Grenada loved Bishop and would not tolerate his incarceration on trumped up charges.

When the people learn that Bishop has been arrested, all hell breaks loose in Grenada. He is eventually freed and retreats to Fort Rupert along with the other officials unjustly detained. At first it seems as if Bishop will prevail, but this location would prove to be a scene of horrific events that are haunting. I must warn readers that the decision to seize the fort and capture its occupants is graphic. Frankly, it was nothing short of murder. As I read, I felt a sense of loss at Bishop’s death and how callous his executioners were in ending the lives of Grenadian officials. It is by far, the darkest moment in the book and I can only imagine the grief felt by Grenadians on that day. In Cuba, Castro was following the events, and his prophetic warning about U.S. involvement was about to come true.

The deployment of U.S. Marines has been labeled an “invasion”. It is true that battles did occur between the U.S. military and Grenadian army, but order was restored, and the October 17 group consisting of those who led the coup against Bishop received their comeuppance for what happened. The author explains the result of the arrival of U.S. troops and trials of conspirators. Today, those who survived their prison sentences are still alive, but they carry with them the memories of October 19, and the insanity which occurred. Bishop’s demise was tragic, and its impact was significant. It is further complicated by the controversy surrounding his grave which has no marker. Readers who find this book enjoyable, should take a look at a Washington Post podcast called ‘The Empty Grave of Comrade Bishop‘ by host Martine Powers. It is a fascination series of episodes which take a deep dive into the life of Maurich Bishop and the island of Grenada.

ASIN ‏ : ‎ B08JF29K7G
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Ian Randle Publishers (September 16, 2020)

FREETHINKING BIBLIOPHILE

Author: Genyc79