The Impact of Creolization in the Caribbean: Introduction

This blog will explore the ideas and relevant media surrounding one of the major themes of Tour de Force, creolization.

Defining Creolization

Within the text, the term creolization, also known as “syncretism,” is considered as the blending of cultural aspects and/or traditions from other regions (such as African or European) for a unique, novel cultural product. While defining this, the text references examples of creolization such as in language.

The Sugar Plantation in Haiti
(Photo taken from https://voxeurop.eu/en/blame-it-on-france/)

Kreyol (which is also known as Haitian Creole) is a common example of creolized language. It is known as broken French, described as a blend of French and other languages spoken in Haiti, and was developed as a product of contact between French colonists and the persons enslaved to work the sugar plantations. 

Like language, music evaluated in the Caribbean, though unique to each country in its ways, is a collective of influences from around the world that contributed to a sound admired by both locals and international enthusiasts. As an example of this, there are genres that are a product of this cultural blend that has led to the development of other genres or subgenres like Reggaeton which has roots in dancehall, popular American music (especially hip hop and rap), and other Caribbean music. Here's one of the more memorable works of this genre, Despacito ft. Daddy Yankee by Luis Fonsi:

I chose this video as an example due to its international popularity (despite having Spanish lyrics) and the fact it is a wonderful example of Reggaeton featuring a proclaimed "king" of said genre (Daddy Yankee).

Creolization in Cultural Profiles

Rashad Ferguson during Junkanoo-Carnival 2018.
(Used with permission from Rashad Ferguson)

Despite popular belief, creolization extends beyond simply sounds/music and can be considered a major part of cultural development in Caribbean countries. Creolization examples can be found throughout Caribbean culture or history in language, religion, cuisine, and corresponding culinary techniques. An uncommon view of creolization can be seen in the Caribbean’s cultural aesthetics or art styles in presentation. 

Junkanoo, a cultural parade celebrated in The Bahamas, is a product of creolization in the Caribbean. It is a festival, passed down over many years, started by African slaves stationed at plantations in the country. Though unique to Bahamian culture, there are similar festivals celebrated within the Caribbean that have led to a new festival altogether, Junkanoo-Carnival. Despite comments in both positive and negative lights, many have described both the fused and parent parades alike as a representation of “All tings Bahamian!”

I included this additional example because I remember learning so much about what made Junkanoo what it is from my Uncle Silbert (the speaker in the video) at Educulture. 

From history to costume components to music considerations, this video captures those aspects which show proof of creolization behind the major festival.