Prexit: Forging Puerto Rico's Path to Sovereignty

Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory in the Caribbean, has been a subject of ongoing political and economic debate for decades. The island's status as a U.S. commonwealth has been a source of both controversy and uncertainty, with many Puerto Ricans seeking either statehood or independence. In recent years, the call for "Prexit" - Puerto Rico's exit from the United States - has gained increasing momentum.

"Prexit: Forging Puerto Rico's Path to Sovereignty" by Nelson A. Denis, published in 2023, is a comprehensive analysis of the complexities surrounding Puerto Rico's political future. The book offers a detailed exploration of the island's history, economy, and its current political status, while presenting a compelling case for Puerto Rican sovereignty.

Historical Context

The history of Puerto Rico is inextricably linked to that of the United States. The island became a U.S. territory following the Spanish-American War in 1898, and its current status as a commonwealth was established in 1952. However, Puerto Ricans have never been granted full U.S. citizenship or the right to vote in presidential elections.

PREXIT: Forging Puerto Rico’s Path to Sovereignty

by Wesley G. Skogan

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5803 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	391 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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Denis argues that the U.S. has maintained control over Puerto Rico for strategic and economic reasons. The island's location in the Caribbean Sea has been of military value, while its economy has been dominated by U.S. corporations. As a result, Puerto Rico has experienced significant economic inequality and political suppression.

Economic Challenges

Puerto Rico faces numerous economic challenges, including high unemployment, a struggling tourist industry, and a massive public debt. The island has been under a U.S.-imposed Fiscal Control Board since 2016, which has implemented severe austerity measures that have further exacerbated economic hardship.

Denis argues that Puerto Rico's economic woes are directly related to its political status as a commonwealth. The island is denied access to international markets and funding bodies, and its ability to make its own economic decisions is severely limited. As a result, the island has been trapped in a cycle of poverty and dependence.

Political Movements

The book examines the various political movements that have emerged in Puerto Rico, including the pro-statehood Partido Nuevo Progresista (PNP) and the pro-independence Partido Independentista Puertorriqueño (PIP). However, Denis argues that neither of these established parties has effectively addressed the island's fundamental problems.

In recent years, a new generation of Puerto Ricans has emerged, seeking a third option beyond statehood or independence. This movement, known as the "sovereigntist" movement, advocates for a Puerto Rico that is free from U.S. control while maintaining close economic and cultural ties to the United States.

The Case for Prexit

Denis presents a compelling case for Puerto Rican sovereignty, arguing that it is both necessary and feasible. He argues that Prexit would allow Puerto Rico to address its own economic challenges, improve its education and healthcare systems, and pursue its own cultural identity.

The book outlines a gradual and negotiated path to Prexit, involving a transition period during which Puerto Rico would take on greater responsibility for its own affairs while maintaining its economic ties to the United States. Denis acknowledges that the road to sovereignty will not be easy, but he believes that it is the only way to ensure a better future for all Puerto Ricans.

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"Prexit: Forging Puerto Rico's Path to Sovereignty" is a timely and thought-provoking book that offers a fresh perspective on the island's political and economic future. Nelson A. Denis provides a well-researched and compelling case for Puerto Rican sovereignty, while acknowledging the challenges that lie ahead.

The book is essential reading for anyone interested in the history, politics, and economy of Puerto Rico. It is a must-read for anyone who believes in the right of all peoples to self-determination and the pursuit of a better future.

PREXIT: Forging Puerto Rico’s Path to Sovereignty

by Wesley G. Skogan

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5803 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	391 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE