Summary of Autobiografía de un esclavo

Autobiografía de un esclavo (Autobiography of a Slave) is an autobiography by Cuban author Esteban Montejo. It centers around the life and struggles of a former slave in Cuba during Spanish colonial rule and beyond the abolition of slavery in 1886. It recounts Montejo's own experience in slavery, detailing the harsh conditions on the plantations, the culture and struggles of the slaves, his witness of revolts and uprisings, his escape to the woods, and ultimately his retirement in Havana at a ripe old age. He also recounts the stories of other slaves, both past and present, emphasizing the deep sense of family despite the brutal economic, social and political structure that threatens to divide them. Montejo reveals the role of internal struggles of enslaved communities and of the role of rebellion against slavery. The book is a testament to the courage and fierce resilience of the enslaved people of Cuba.