Jamaican Diaries of Robert Hibbert 1787-1802: Inside the First House of the Jamaica Trade

the slave trade through one family's involvement until the death of Thomas Hibbert, the patriarch, in 1780 with no legal heirs. The next generation of West India merchants, plantation, slave owners and traders were his nine nephews, eight of whom were actively involved with George Hibbert (cover portrait) coming to dominate West India commerce and politics..

Beginning in 1787, the book traces the establishment of what became known as 'The First House of the Jamaica Trade', and outlines its dominance in the slave trade, West India produce, and finance. The vertical integration of the business with the inception/foundation of the West India Dock is explored, as are the connections with other West Indies traders linked by marriage, commerce or both.

Through the incorporation of aspects of social history and genealogy, the inclusion of artworks, and the use of primary materials, the author describes British Atlantic history through the lens of one family's history. It introduces William Wilberforce's great opponent, George Hibbert, who effectively delayed abolition until compensation was on the table. Surprisingly, the family's association with Jamaica continued for three decades after abolition.

The diaries for 1781-86 are missing. Covering the years 1787 to 1802, the diaries reproduced here include harrowing accounts of Atlantic crossings, as well as much information about the day-to-day lives of the family, both in Jamaica and in England.