Description
Book Synopsis: The epic story of the Congo-Océan railroad and the human costs and contradictions of modern empire.
The Congo-Océan railroad stretches across the Republic of Congo from Brazzaville to the Atlantic port of Pointe-Noir. It was completed in 1934, when Equatorial Africa was a French colony, and it stands as one of the deadliest construction projects in history. Colonial workers were subjects of an ostensibly democratic nation whose motto read “Liberty, Equality, Fraternity,” but liberal ideals were savaged by a cruelly indifferent administrative state.
African workers were forcibly conscripted and separated from their families, and subjected to hellish conditions as they hacked their way through dense tropical foliage-a “forest of no joy”; excavated by hand thousands of tons of earth in order to lay down track; blasted their way through rock to construct tunnels; or risked their lives building bridges over otherwise impassable rivers. In the process, they suffered disease, malnutrition, and rampant physical abuse, likely resulting in at least 20,000 deaths.
In the Forest of No Joy captures in vivid detail the experiences of the men, women, and children who toiled on the railroad, and forces a reassessment of the moral relationship between modern industrialized empires and what could be called global humanitarian impulses-the desire to improve the lives of people outside of Europe. Drawing on exhaustive research in French and Congolese archives, a chilling documentary record, and heartbreaking photographic evidence, J.P. Daughton tells the epic story of the Congo-Océan railroad, and in doing so reveals the human costs and contradictions of modern empire. 20 photographs; 3 maps.
Details
Uncover the Dark Truth of French Colonialism: In the Forest of No Joy takes you on a gripping journey into the heart of Africa's tragic history. This compelling book explores the harrowing tale of the Congo-Océan railroad, an infamous symbol of French colonialism. Delve into the secrets hidden within its tracks.
Experience the Epic Struggle: Join J.P. Daughton on a fascinating exploration of the Congo-Océan railroad that stretches across the Republic of Congo. Discover the incredible challenges faced by African workers, forcibly conscripted and subjected to inhumane conditions. Brace yourself for a story that will leave you in awe.
A Glimpse into the Forest of No Joy: Immerse yourself in a world of dense tropical foliage, treacherous tunnels, and impassable rivers. Follow the footsteps of those who risked their lives to build bridges and lay down tracks, enduring disease, malnutrition, and physical abuse. Brace yourself for a gripping firsthand account of their struggles.
Reveal the Moral Dilemma of Modern Empire: In this eye-opening book, J.P. Daughton lays bare the moral contradictions of modern industrialized empires. Witness firsthand the clash between European ideals and the devastating reality faced by the Congolese workers. Prepare to question the very foundations of humanitarian impulses and global justice.
Unlock History's Dark Secrets: Through exhaustive research and compelling photographic evidence, In the Forest of No Joy uncovers the untold stories and forgotten tragedies of the Congo-Océan railroad. Let this book be your key to unlocking a hidden chapter of history that shouldn't be forgotten.
Join the Journey: Embark on an unforgettable journey through history by diving into In the Forest of No Joy: The Congo-Océan Railroad and the Tragedy of French Colonialism. Discover the captivating tales of those who risked everything and gain a new perspective on modern empire. Don't miss out on this thought-provoking read!
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