Race and Prejudice

While the white's view of the black people of Trinidad is important, Sabine's main fear is the blacks' attitude toward the whites. She notes that the black people of the island barely acknowledge the whites. When the racial tensions begin, a neighbor notes that Sabine and her family could be in danger from their maids. Sabine doesn't want to believe that's true, but the neighbor urges her to be careful. The people of Trinidad are largely descended from slaves, forcibly brought to the island to work in the agriculture there.

The racial tensions escalate during the 1960s and 1970s, much as it did in the United States during that period. There are people touting “Black Power” and blacks are seeking to gain control of their lives. There are demonstrations among the black communities and whites, as a rule, are not welcome. As is often...