In 1843 and 1844 the colonial government of Cuba put down a slave conspiracy and revolt with all the fire and sword it could muster. Blacks and whites were executed. But later historians argued that there had been no conspiracy or revolt. The government had contrived the situation to rid itself of those who agitated against the continued existence of a slave society in Cuba. In this fine piece of sleuthing, Paquette describes slave life in 19th-century Cuba, the foibles of the planter class, and the movement towards abolition. Well written and well researched; an excellent study for undergraduates and for those who want to continue the discussion.Nicholas P. Cushner, Empire State Coll . , SUNY at Buffalo - Library Journal.