Key to the New World

“A splendid work of historical craftsmanship. In tone and content it offers a generally balanced survey of Cuban history through the end of the seventeenth century and in this regard it promises to offer a very usable introductory text. The writing is accessible and thoughtful, organized around an informative and engaging narrative.”—Louis A. Pérez Jr., author of On Becoming Cuban: Identity, Nationality, and Culture



“This comprehensive synthesis fills an important gap in the literature on early colonial Cuba.”—Jane G. Landers, author of Colonial Plantations and Economy in Florida



“A commendable and important achievement.”—Jason M. Yaremko, author of Indigenous Passages to Cuba, 1515–1900

“Refreshing and illustrative. . . . Curious travelers as well as scholars from historical geography and allied disciplines interested in slavery, empire, and the Europeanization of the world will find much to savor in this new recipe about historical Cuba.”—AAG Review of Books



“From the earliest geology to the beginnings of the sugar economy that would go on to dominate the island, Martínez-Fernández paints a comprehensive picture. . . making it ideal both for the general reader interested in Cuba and as a resource for teaching this period of Cuban history. . . . A welcome addition.”—H-Net