To create an understanding of the cultural shift that now exist throughout the region, it is appropriate to present an outline of the lifestyle and practices as it was prior to mass media exposure. Even though sporting activities seem universal by their very nature, they are all unique to cultures, location and times. Today, sport is an international cultural phenomenon, conveying social values of fame and success. It was often easier to find material on the most popular sport in one’s hometown than on events such as world cups or seasonal championships (Fortin v). All that has since changed due to the availability of many types of media outlets.
Cricket might be a strange game to many territories but it is the sport that brought fame, fortune, glory and recognition to the wider Caribbean region.The style, celebration and competitive spirit placed on the game of cricket by Caribbean people became contagious. Cricket, which was dubbed ‘The Gentleman’s Game’ when introduced into the region by Great Britain, displays nothing gentle when Caribbean people participate. The game of cricket much like the acceptance of Clemente and Robinson into baseball was transformed and brought with it a new fan base and a new global perspective. This great change quickly gave a new name to the way Caribbean people exhibited their talents. Players from the region were highly admired and revered by international audiences. The name ‘Calypso Cricket’ became synonymous with the region’s style of playing the game. Caribbean people enjoyed over a decade of world dominance on the international cricket stage. The outline above merely introduces the meaning of cricket to the region, which is the main cultural identity of my people. An in depth writing will construct a timeline of the changes now taking place in the game due to other influences.
Other elements that make up the modern cultural context of the region are clothing, technologies, music and an ever-changing perception of outside life. African heritage and pride is obvious throughout the region. People would wear locally designed costumes and celebrate with dance, songs and food in the African Spirit. Technologies were limited to A.M and Short Wave and Long Wave transmitter radios and a few regional television stations. A new paradigm is now taking place across the region as territories are inundated with Cable Television, Internet and cell phone users. Other personal electronics such as ipods and other Personal Digital Assistance (PDA’s) are fast becoming the trend among the youth. Calypso, reggae and soca music are the artforms that helped to unite this region and its people. Time and time again these songs would express the social and cultural history of the Caribbean. This in and of itself also helped to give international recognition to the region. Bob Marley, and Sidney Poitier gave much to the culture and became icons with global recognition. Technology would later force many changes in the music and the marketing industry as the home-based audience soon became split having gotten exposed to international music genres. Throughout this writing I will construct a detailed timeline based on the elements that in combination helped to make up the cultural climate of the Caribbean region. Focus will also be given to the undeniable psychological perspective that grips many across the region with regards to the United States of America. STAY TUNED.
