Decolonization Models for America's Last Colony: Puerto Rico

by Ángel Collado-Schwarz

The island of Puerto Rico suffers from a stagnant economy, devastating unemployment, and severely limited political autonomy. In this book, Collado- Schwarz addresses Puerto Rico’s more than a century-old relationship with the United States and presents compelling strategies for gaining independence. Through a series of interviews and newspaper columns, the author examines six countries similar in size to Puerto Rico that have all successfully navigated a course to sovereignty: Singapore, Ireland, Israel, New Zealand, Estonia, and Slovenia. Collado-Schwarz chronicles the political history of each country, the ways in which each achieved independence, and what lessons can be applied to Puerto Rico. With cogent analysis and carefully reasoned arguments, this book will reopen the national dialogue in the United States about the future of Puerto Rico.

Genres: Politics

304 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2008

Reviews

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amazingly well-written scientific study depicting how lack of sovereignty and dependence on foreign countries destroys the economy of a country, demonstrating the relations between dependency and lack of productivity, economic problems and the lack of core solutions, a non-diversified export market and independence.

Not only does this book apply to Puerto Rico, but to any colonized country today that lacks independence both politically and economically. As a Lebanese person, I could relate to almost every point exposed and understand why our economy is and will remain unproductive despite so much economic potential.

I love that this book breaks down several myths surrounding the origins and perpetuity of a non-productive economy in the frame of colonialism, by simultaneously explaining how previously colonized countries evolved into the strong economies they are. The comparison is baffling, and the solutions are realistically advanced.

Very objective, very scientific book.

[Joel Berrocal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I very much enjoyed learning about the economic models of the 6 countries discussed in the book. The book was a fresh approach to a highly discussed, highly divisive issue. Many books have talked about Puerto Rico's many issues, but have not have talked about solutions in such great detail. It perfectly connects the downfall of Puerto Rico's economy with its political relationship with the United States. I think it's a necessary read, regardless of where you stand on Puertp Rico's status issue. Highly recommended.