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Cover of The Mentor: The Virgin Islands of the United States of America, Vol. 6, Num. 13, Serial No. 161, August 15, 1918

The Mentor: The Virgin Islands of the United States of America, Vol. 6, Num. 13, Serial No. 161, August 15, 1918

Written by E. M. (Edward Manuel) Newman

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United States Virgin Islands

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About this book

"The Mentor: The Virgin Islands of the United States of America, Vol. 6, Num.…" by E. M. Newman is a travel publication written during the early 20th century. This work covers the history, culture, and geography of the Virgin Islands, which were transferred from Danish to American control in 1917. The book likely aims to provide readers with a deep understanding of these islands, showcasing their beauty and significance. In this publication, Newman embarks on an exploration of the Virgin Islands, highlighting their stunning landscapes, historical significance, and the impact of colonial powers upon their people. He discusses the natural beauty of islands like St. Thomas and St. Croix, with their lush vegetation, rich agriculture, and vibrant local communities. The history of the islands is traced from Columbus's discovery to the eventual transfer to the United States, detailing the complex interplay of different nations and cultures throughout the centuries. Through vivid descriptions, the book captures the essence of island life, including local customs and the favorable climate, while also addressing the social dynamics and the hope for the islands' future under American governance.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in The Mentor: The Virgin Islands of the United States of America, Vol. 6, Num. 13, Serial No. 161, August 15, 1918, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 6 hours
  • intermediate
  • informative
  • historical
  • descriptive

E. M. Newman's "The Mentor: The Virgin Islands of the United States of America" is a pivotal early 20th-century travel publication offering a comprehensive exploration of the newly acquired American territories. Published shortly after the 1917 transfer from Denmark, the book delves into the islands' rich history from Columbus's arrival, their diverse cultural tapestry, and their stunning geographical features. Newman vividly describes the natural beauty, economic potential, and the daily life of communities on islands like St. Thomas and St. Croix. It serves as both an informative guide and a hopeful projection for the future of the Virgin Islands under American governance, emphasizing their strategic importance and vibrant heritage.

“The transfer of these beautiful islands to the United States marks a new chapter in their long and eventful history.”

Key themes

Colonialism and its Legacy
The book extensively details the history of the Virgin Islands under various colonial powers (Danish, British, French, Spanish) before their transfer to the United States. Newman explores how these successive periods of foreign rule shaped the islands' political landscape, economic structures, and cultural identity. The transfer to American control is presented as the latest, and implicitly, most promising, chapter in this long colonial history.
American Governance and Future Prospects
A central theme is the optimistic vision for the Virgin Islands under American control. Published shortly after the transfer, the book aims to showcase the potential for development, prosperity, and improved governance. Newman subtly, and at times explicitly, champions the idea of American stewardship as a positive force, emphasizing the hope for the islands' future under this new administration.
Natural Beauty and Geographical Significance
Newman dedicates significant portions of the book to vivid descriptions of the Virgin Islands' stunning natural landscapes. This theme emphasizes the lush vegetation, favorable climate, rich agriculture, and picturesque qualities of islands like St. Thomas and St. Croix. It also underscores the geographical importance of the islands, particularly their strategic location for trade and defense in the Caribbean.

Worth discussing

How does Newman's portrayal of the Virgin Islands reflect the American perspective on newly acquired territories in the early 20th century?

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