The Social Composition of the Dominican Republic

Composicion social dominicana (Social Composition of the Dominican Republic), first published in 1970 in Spanish, and translated into English here for the first time, discusses the changing structure of social classes and groups in Dominican society from the first encounter between Europeans and Natives through to the mid-20th century. This influential and pioneering book details the struggles of the Dominican people as they evolved from pre-colonial and colonial subjects to sovereign actors with the task of moving a republic forward, amidst imperialist desires and martial ambitions.

Juan Bosch, one of the most well-known, well-loved Dominican politicians and scholars, here sets out the important themes that define modern Dominican soicety, such as the inter-imperialist rivalry between France, Spain, England and Holland, and its subsequent impact on the Caribbean region, the aftermath of political alliances between liberals and conservatives during the birth of the Dominican Republic, as well as the Restoration War fought against the Spanish Crown, the role of the petit bourgeoisie and thehateros (cattle-ranchers) in the formation of a Dominian oligarchy, the US occupation of the Dominican Republic from 1916-1924, the emergence of dictator Rafael Trujillo, and the composition of society during his reign.

This translation, introduced and contextualized by a leading figure in Dominican Studies, opens up Bosch's work for a new generation of scholars studying the Caribbean.

Juan Bosch, (1909-2001) the first democratically-elected president of the Dominican Republic, was a politician, historian, writer, and educator. Before his election, he led the exiled Dominican opposition against the dictator Rafael Trujillo. He is remembered as one of the most influential figures in Dominican politics and letters.