Archaeological research at a historic plantation site in the US Virgin Islands is revealing important insights about the lives of enslaved—and later free—Afro-Crucian people on the island of St. Croix. Join Ayana Omilade Flewellen, assistant professor of anthropology at the University of California, Riverside, and co-founder of the Society of Black Archaeologists, for a discussion of the research at St. Croix's Estate Little Princess, as well as the training opportunities it's providing to local youths and students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities in the U.S.

In this enlightening lecture, Dr. Ayana Omilade Flewellen, a distinguished professor at Stanford University, explores the intersections of black feminism, archaeology, and storytelling. She advocates for the centrality of black women's experiences in historical narratives and discusses the multifaceted role of archaeology in public history and cultural preservation. The talk features her work with the Society of Black Archaeologists and Diving With a Purpose, emphasizing the need for diversity in the field and the significance of underwater archaeology in heritage conservation. Dr. Flewellen also presents the Estate Little Princess project in St. Croix, a groundbreaking initiative combining terrestrial and underwater archaeology to uncover and preserve Afro-Crucian history. The lecture is a compelling call to recognize and engage with the rich, often untold, histories that shape our world, making it a valuable resource for students, educators, and anyone interested in the dynamic fields of archaeology and cultural heritage.

This insightful lecture delves into the historical significance of Maroon Country in the Virgin Islands, an area steeped in rich and complex history. Maroon Country, known for its role as a refuge for escaped enslaved Africans, stands as a testament to the resilience and struggle for freedom that marked the era of slavery in the Caribbean. The video examines the geographical, cultural, and historical aspects of Maroon Country, highlighting its importance as a symbol of resistance and liberation. It sheds light on the lives of the Maroons, their survival strategies, and their impact on the socio-political landscape of the Virgin Islands. The narrative intertwines the struggles and triumphs of the Maroons with the broader context of Caribbean history, offering viewers a comprehensive understanding of this pivotal chapter in the Virgin Islands' past. Ideal for students, educators, and history enthusiasts, this video provides a compelling look at a crucial aspect of Caribbean heritage, encouraging a deeper appreciation and understanding of the territory's complex history.