Puerto Rico in the Age of Empire: Pirates, Revolts, and the Fight for Autonomy
Year(s) Discussed: 1815-1898
In the first part of this conversation, I am joined by Joe Pascone of the Turning Tides Podcast to trace Puerto Rico’s history from the post-Napoleonic era through the rise of nationalism, rebellion, and colonial resistance. We explore the island’s shifting political status, the legacy of piracy and slavery, and how Puerto Rico became a crucial but often overlooked part of larger Atlantic world struggles. This opening half sets up the central question of the episode: how did Puerto Rico’s fight for autonomy get eclipsed by empire?
Special thanks to Joe Pascone for his time and the insight that he provided in this episode! Be sure to check out the Turning Tides Podcast, and check out our first discussion on Puerto Rico if you haven't listened to it already.
