Hello
Welcome to Beyond the Seas: Caribbean-American History!
This blog is dedicated to exploring the deep historical connections between the United States and the Caribbean. From pivotal events that shaped both regions to the roles each played in moments of triumph and failure, this space is committed to uncovering the often-overlooked narratives that link these histories together.
Through Beyond the Seas, I aim to delve into key historical events where the Caribbean and the U.S. were involved—whether in success or struggle. The blog will not only highlight these events but also bring attention to historical sites that still stand today, offering a tangible connection to the past for those eager to explore history in person.
As a passionate historian from the Bahamas, my goal is to provide a platform that brings untold stories to light, challenges conventional perspectives, and fosters a greater appreciation for the shared history between the Caribbean and the U.S. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a traveler looking for historical landmarks, or someone interested in learning more about the past, Beyond the Seas is here to guide you through these intertwined legacies.
Thank you for visiting—I look forward to uncovering history together!
My Story
Welcome to my blog! My name is Dontae Gilbert, and I’m from the beautiful islands of the Bahamas. I’ve always had a deep love for history, fascinated by how vast and ever-changing it is. However, I’ve often resented the way history is traditionally taught—primarily from the perspective of the victors rather than the voices of the oppressed, especially in the context of Bahamian and Caribbean history.
My journey with history took an unexpected turn when I moved from the Bahamas to Alberta, Canada, for high school. The transition from the warm, familiar Caribbean climate to the cold, structured world of Canada was a massive culture shock. Everything was different—the people, the education system, and the historical narratives I was exposed to. Navigating this new environment alone was challenging, but it was through my history teacher, dorm dean, and the incredible friends I made—many of Filipino and Canadian descent—that I truly learned about cultural appreciation versus appropriation. Their support and my exposure to diverse histories helped me adapt, shaping my perspective on the importance of untold stories.
Initially, I planned to become a pharmacist, but my experiences in Canada ignited a passion for historical education. I realized I wanted to advocate for the unheard voices of history, to shed light on forgotten narratives, and to ensure that history is told from all perspectives, not just those in power. This passion led me to Saint Leo University, where I earned my bachelor’s degree in history with a minor in international studies. From there, I was honored to be accepted into Arizona State University’s School of Civic and Economic Thought and Leadership (SCETL) for my master’s degree, with plans to pursue a Ph.D. in the future.
Beyond my academic pursuits, I have a deep love for cooking, scuba diving, and helping others in any way I can. Through this blog, I hope to share insightful discussions on history’s forgotten stories, challenge traditional narratives, and inspire meaningful conversations about the past’s impact on our present and future.
Thank you for being here—I look forward to exploring history with you!
Contact
I'm always looking for new and exciting opportunities. Let's connect.