Legacy of the Lash: Race and Corporal Punishment in the Brazilian Navy and the Atlantic World (Blacks in the Diaspora)

Embark on a captivating journey into the heart of early 20th-century Brazil with "Legacy of the Lash: Race and Corporal Punishment in the Brazilian Navy and the Atlantic World," a meticulously researched and powerfully written history by Zachary R. Morgan and acclaimed historian Marcus Rediker. This illustrated hardcover edition, published by Indiana University Press, unveils the untold story of the 1910 Revolta da Chibata (Revolt of the Lash), a pivotal moment that exposed deep-seated racial tensions and challenged the very foundations of Brazilian society. Go beyond the surface of Brazilian history and delve into the lives of the non-elite, largely Black sailors who endured brutal conditions and systemic racism within the Brazilian Navy. Morgan and Rediker paint a vivid picture of the oppressive labor regimes enforced through the lash, a cruel form of corporal punishment that symbolized the enduring legacy of slavery in a nation struggling to define its post-abolition identity. The authors don't simply recount the historical events; they breathe life into the struggles, hopes, and resilience of these forgotten men. The book masterfully sets the stage by providing a rich historical context, examining the social and political landscape of Brazil in the decades leading up to and immediately following the abolition of slavery in 1888. This crucial period witnessed both progress and persistent inequalities, as the newly formed republic grappled with issues of race, citizenship, and modernity. "Legacy of the Lash" meticulously explores how these factors intertwined to create the volatile conditions that ultimately sparked the revolt. The narrative vividly recreates the four days in November 1910 when the sailors, driven to their breaking point, seized control of four modern warships and turned their guns on Rio de Janeiro, the nation's capital. This audacious act of defiance forced the Brazilian government to confront the brutal reality of its naval practices and ultimately led to the official abolition of the lash. However, the victory came at a steep price. Morgan and Rediker meticulously document the aftermath of the revolt, revealing the harsh repercussions faced by the participants. The book unflinchingly portrays the government's response, highlighting the betrayals and injustices that followed the sailors' courageous stand. "Legacy of the Lash" is far more than just a historical account; it is a profound exploration of key themes that continue to resonate today. Through the lens of the Revolt of the Lash, the book examines critical issues of racial identity, violence, masculinity, citizenship, and the complex process of nation-building in Brazil. It invites readers to consider how the legacy of slavery shaped Brazilian society and continues to influence its present. Marcus Rediker, known for his groundbreaking work on maritime history and the Atlantic slave trade (author of *The Amistad Rebellion: An Atlantic Odyssey of Freedom* and *Villains of All Nations: Atlantic Pirates in the Golden Age*), brings his expertise to this collaboration, providing a nuanced understanding of the Atlantic world and its interconnected histories. Zachary R. Morgan complements this with his deep knowledge of Brazilian history and culture, creating a truly compelling and insightful narrative. This book will appeal to anyone interested in Brazilian history, naval history, the history of slavery and emancipation, race relations, or the social and cultural dynamics of the Atlantic world. Prepare to be moved by this powerful and important story of resistance, resilience, and the enduring struggle for justice.