Bermuda’s Hidden History: A New Lens on Colonial America

When we think of early colonial America, Bermuda doesn’t typically come to mind. Yet, this small Atlantic island holds a rich and surprising history that challenges conventional narratives about the New World. Bermuda’s pivotal role in the 17th and 18th centuries reshaped the Atlantic economy, maritime innovation, and the dynamics of enslavement.

An Unexpected Colonial Powerhouse

Bermuda’s settlement began in 1609 when the English ship Sea Venture was wrecked on its shores. What started as a survival story quickly turned into the founding of an enduring colony. By 1612, Bermuda had a permanent English settlement, making it one of the earliest in the Americas. Its central location in the Atlantic turned it into a crucial hub for trade and shipping, linking North America, the Caribbean, and Europe.

Unlike the mainland colonies focused on agriculture, Bermuda thrived through maritime enterprise. Bermudians became expert shipbuilders, crafting vessels that were fast and nimble — ideal for navigating the Atlantic trade routes. This expertise helped the island become an essential player in the transatlantic economy, punching well above its geographical weight.

A Complex Relationship With Slavery

Bermuda’s success in the colonial era was deeply tied to the institution of slavery. Enslaved Africans made up a significant portion of the population and were integral to the island’s economy, working as laborers, domestic servants, and skilled shipbuilders. Yet Bermuda’s experience with slavery had some unique characteristics. Because of its small size and maritime focus, enslaved people often worked closely alongside white Bermudians, creating a different social dynamic than on large plantations in places like Virginia or the Carolinas.

This proximity didn’t erase the brutality of slavery, but it did result in a more integrated labor force. Enslaved Bermudians became essential to the island’s shipbuilding industry, and some even used their maritime skills to escape or resist their circumstances. Bermuda’s history of slavery reveals a complex interplay between oppression and resistance, providing a nuanced view of the Atlantic world during the colonial period.

Reframing Colonial America

Bermuda’s history forces us to rethink the standard narrative of colonial America. The island was neither a peripheral player nor a mere stepping stone to mainland settlement. Instead, it was a vibrant and influential colony in its own right, contributing to the economic and cultural fabric of the Atlantic world. Its strategic position made it a key player in trade and piracy, while its unique social and economic structures offer valuable insights into the broader colonial experience. Today, Bermuda’s story remains underrepresented in discussions of early America. By examining its hidden history, we can better understand the interconnectedness of the Atlantic world and the diverse forces that shaped it. Bermuda’s influence stretched far beyond its shores, leaving a legacy that continues to reshape how we view the early colonial era.