A powerful, groundbreaking new history of Britain and the Caribbean, challenging existing thinking about British colonization and recontextualizing the twin stories of contemporary inequality in both regions.

InEmpire Without End, historian Imaobong Umoren delivers an incisive and captivating exploration of the deep, complex ties between Britain and the Caribbeanlargely underexamined until now. Spanning from the 16th century to the present, this riveting narrative redefines how we view the Caribbeannot just as a source of labor and resources for the British Empire, but as a dynamic testing ground for social and cultural experimentation. Umoren uncovers how the Caribbean shaped British societal ideals, many of which were exported back to Britain, laying the foundation for a racial-caste system that still affects social, political, and economic life today.

This deeply researched work goes beyond historical accounts of sugar plantations and slavery. Umoren dives deeper, exploring how religion, global migration, war, grassroots protest, and even tourism all played into the Caribbeans lasting legacy. She boldly connects the dots to modern-day issues, arguing that the shadow of British colonization lingers through neo-colonialism, continuing to shape the lives of Caribbean people. As the world confronts a collective racial reckoning,Empire Without Endsheds light on the ongoing fight for reparations and justice, offering a much-needed lens on historys unfinished business.

Written with clarity and packed with profound insights,Empire Without Endis a must-read for anyone curious about the intertwined histories of Britain, the Caribbean, and America. Joining the ranks of acclaimed historical titles likeBlack Ghosts of Empireand works by Ta-Nehisi Coates, this book provides a fresh, urgent perspective on empires enduring impact and the global conversation it demands today.

Imaobong Umoren is a historian of racism, women and gender in the Caribbean, Britain, and wider African diaspora. She is an Associate Professor at the London School of Economics and Political Science.

• Publisher:Scribner (October 21, 2025)
• Language:English
• Hardcover: 432 pages
• ISBN-13:9781982175016
• Item Weight:1.4 pounds
• Dimensions:9.6 x 1.4 x 6.4 inches
• BISAC Categories: History, Science & Technology, Politics, Society & Current Affairs