Understanding 'Béké' Identity in Martinique

The term 'Béké' is one that carries significant weight and often sparks controversy when discussing the identity of Martinique and other French Antilles. This article delves into the definition, origins, and societal role of the Béké community, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of this influential minority group.

Who are the Békés?

In the context of the French Antilles, a 'Béké' refers to a descendant of the first European settlers who arrived in Martinique and Guadeloupe primarily during the 17th and 18th centuries. Essentially, a Béké is a white person born in the Antilles. It is crucial to distinguish this term from 'zoreille,' a somewhat derogatory term used to describe white individuals who reside in the overseas territories, even temporarily. A tourist visiting Martinique, for instance, might be called a 'zoreille,' but they would never be considered a Béké.

Etymology and Historical Roots

The precise origin and first appearance of the term 'Béké' remain subjects of debate among linguists. Several theories attempt to explain its etymology. One prominent hypothesis suggests that the word derives from the Igbo language, spoken in Nigeria, where it signifies 'white person.' This theory posits that the term was introduced to the Antilles by Igbo people who were enslaved and transported to the region. Another theory proposes that 'Béké' is a linguistic deformation, possibly stemming from a phrase uttered by early colonists such as "Eh bé ké?" which translates to "Well, what then?". Despite these theories, a definitive consensus has yet to be reached.

Regardless of its linguistic origins, the term 'Béké' is often viewed with apprehension by those it describes, largely due to the historical baggage it carries. This heritage is intrinsically linked to the colonial era, a period when Europeans held absolute dominance over the Caribbean islands. During this time, they amassed considerable wealth through the cultivation of sugarcane plantations and the brutal enslavement of hundreds of thousands of men and women.

Divergent Destinies: Martinique vs. Guadeloupe

The influence and dominance of the planter class, the Békés, persisted for the longest period in Martinique. In contrast, during the French Revolution at the end of the 18th century, nearly all the Békés in Guadeloupe were either guillotined or executed, with the remaining few fleeing the island. The situation in Martinique unfolded differently. The Béké planters, in an effort to circumvent the first abolition of slavery, surrendered the island to the British. The British provided them with protection and occupied Martinique from 1794 to 1802, the year Napoleon reinstated slavery.

This historical divergence explains why the descendants of these colonists, the Békés, are comparatively more numerous in Martinique today. However, it is essential to qualify this statement: the Béké community remains a very small minority within the broader Martinican society.

Privilege and Isolation: The Béké Community Today

Despite their minority status, the Békés continue to constitute a privileged and influential caste in Martinique. The area known as "Békéland," located in the Cap-Est quarter of the commune of Le François, where many Békés reside, highlights their perceived reputation and concentration. Their continued dominance in key sectors of the Martinican economy is a frequent point of criticism.

Several Béké families are at the helm of significant enterprises on the island, particularly in sectors such as large-scale distribution, agri-food, and import-export. Their economic influence is not confined to Martinique but extends to Guadeloupe and the wider Caribbean region. This pattern of economic control, often characterized as a monopoly, is regularly denounced in the Antilles. In Creole, a specific term, "pwofitasyon," a blend of "profit" and "exploitation," has been coined to describe this phenomenon.

Economic Power and "Pwofitasyon"

The concentration of economic power within a small number of families, many of whom are Békés, has led to accusations of "pwofitasyon." This term encapsulates the perception that certain businesses, often long-established and family-run, leverage their market position to the detriment of smaller competitors and the general consumer. The historical context of colonial wealth accumulation and the subsequent maintenance of economic structures by descendants of the planter class fuels these criticisms. Protests have occurred in Martinique, highlighting concerns about the use of pesticides in agriculture and the perceived monopolistic practices associated with Béké-controlled businesses.

Social Perceptions and Identity

The Béké identity is complex, intertwined with a history of both privilege and exclusion. While they are a minority, their historical legacy and continued economic influence shape social dynamics on the island. The term itself, as mentioned, is often viewed critically due to its association with slavery and colonialism. For many, it represents an enduring symbol of a past hierarchy that continues to have contemporary repercussions. The Béké community, in turn, often navigates a delicate social landscape, perceived by some as aloof or resistant to full integration.

Key Béké Families and Their Influence

While specific family names are often not publicly disclosed in such analyses, it is widely acknowledged that a few prominent families have historically controlled and continue to exert significant influence over the economic landscape of Martinique. These families have often diversified their holdings over generations, maintaining control through intricate business networks and intergenerational wealth transfer. Their activities span crucial sectors, impacting employment, trade, and consumer prices across the island.

Comparative Table: Béké vs. Zoreille

To further clarify the distinction, a simple comparison can be made:

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Are all white people in Martinique Békés?

No. The term 'Béké' specifically refers to descendants of the early European colonial settlers. White individuals who have moved to Martinique more recently are typically referred to as 'zoreilles' and do not share the same historical lineage or socio-economic positioning as the Békés.

Q2: Why are Békés considered influential?

Their influence stems from historical land ownership, the accumulation of wealth during the colonial era, and the subsequent control of key economic sectors on the island through generations. This has allowed certain Béké families to maintain a dominant position in areas like distribution and agriculture.

Q3: Is the term 'Béké' offensive?

While not inherently offensive in its definition, the term carries significant historical connotations related to colonialism and slavery. For many, it evokes a past of inequality and exploitation, leading to a critical or sensitive perception of the term and the community it represents.

Q4: What is 'pwofitasyon'?

'Pwofitasyon' is a Creole term used in the Antilles to describe economic practices perceived as monopolistic or exploitative, often associated with the dominant economic players on the island, many of whom are Békés. It combines the concepts of profit and exploitation.

Q5: How large is the Béké population in Martinique?

The Béké community is estimated to represent around 1% of Martinique's total population, which translates to approximately 3,000 individuals. Despite their small numbers, their historical and economic standing grants them significant influence.

In conclusion, understanding the Béké community in Martinique requires an appreciation of their deep historical roots, the complexities of their identity, and their enduring, albeit debated, role in the island's socio-economic fabric. The term itself serves as a reminder of the colonial past and its lasting impact on contemporary Antillean society.