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

Olive Senior’s Dying to Better Themselves sheds light on a forgotten chapter in Caribbean history: the West Indian contribution to the construction of the Panama Canal. The book challenges the common narrative that West Indian migration began with the “Windrush Generation” of the 1950s.

Senior reveals a much earlier exodus, driven by economic hardship following emancipation. Lured by the promise of lucrative work, West Indians in droves journeyed to Panama in the mid-1800s, forming the backbone of the labor force for the Panama Railroad and later the canal itself.

Dying to Better Themselves doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities. Senior explores the grueling work conditions, diseases, and appalling living situations that many West Indians endured. The book honors their sacrifices while acknowledging the lasting impact on their homelands.

Senior’s work goes beyond just statistics. She weaves together a rich tapestry using official records, personal accounts, and cultural expressions like songs and sayings. This multifaceted approach allows readers to connect with the human stories behind the historical events.

Dying to Better Themselves offers a fresh perspective on West Indian migration and the building of the Panama Canal. It highlights the complexities of the experience, the enduring spirit of the West Indian people, and the lasting impact this period had on the Caribbean world.