URBAN DEVELOPMENT AND SOCIAL CHANGE 1692-2002
2006
Kingston, Jamaica: Ian Randle Publishers
pp. 378
ISBN 0-9753529-4-6
Kingston, Jamaica: Urban Development and Social Change, 1692‑2002 presents a cross-sectional approach to the social and economic development – slavery, post-emancipation, decolonization and independence – of one of the most vibrant cities in the Caribbean. This new edition of Colin Clarke’s path-breaking book extends the examination and analysis of Kingston’s social and economic development from the end of the colonial period in 1962 to the contemporary scene in the early 2000s. Colin Clarke not only reflects on his original fieldwork of forty-five years earlier and evaluates the existing text in relation to social theory in the intervening years, but also introduces the reader to the process of decolonization and its implications for urbanization, economic development and social change. He also examines the social and spatial structure of Kingston since 1962, focusing on urban decentralization, the development of uptown and downtown, and the shift towards greater class entrenchment under the impact of structural adjustment. An outstanding feature of the book is the use of cartography to express both social and spatial development and to explore the relationship between class, race/colour, family structure and religion.
Assessments of the original 1975 volume and the expanded and up-dated edition of 2006.
‘This is a lucid, expertly synthesised, handsomely published conspectus of the growth of Kingston, Jamaica, since its founding in 1692. Had we but a score of such concise yet comprehensive studies of cities in both developing and developed lands, many of the ambitious comparisons that tantalize urbanists would fall neatly into place. One key to the author’s success is that he has widened his lens without becoming merely encyclopaedic. Two organizing themes are conscientiously set forth and adhered to: first, a concern with spatial, demographic and economic growth and their interactions; second, a concern with social structure and the changing relations among race, culture and status.’
– Richard M. Morse, Yale University (1977)
‘This new volume, expanded and up-dated to deal with post-independence Kingston, has resulted in a beautifully-produced book containing, in addition to the original publication, wonderful maps and photographs from 1960 onwards.’
– Amanda Sives, Liverpool University (2007)
