Review of Exceptions to Their Rule

[Justine Ocsebio]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Exceptions to Their Rule" by Richard S. Sloan.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Exceptions to Their Rule by Richard Sloan unveils untold stories that have escaped the pages of traditional history books. The book narrates the compelling tale of the Basques and the Wabanaki, positioning them as champions of democracy during the late medieval period from 1420 to 1620. Sloan delves deep into the distinct cultures of these groups, chronicling their remarkable cultural transformations since their first contact in 1512.

What sets this book apart for me is its profound message, subverting the Western racist notion that indigenous people are savages. In this book, there is an emphasis on appreciation for the intellectual and physical contributions of Plebeian cultures like the Wabanaki and Basque. The democratic societies they built should be models of true democracy. This book tells historical facts and comments on these facts with skepticism, which is interesting. The chapter dedicated to the exploration of Columbus in Nova Scotia encouraged readers to question historical narratives and consider the complex factors surrounding early transatlantic exploration. It's also interesting how the author explores the abuse of power by autocrats, which has parallels to modern issues present in the twenty-first century. 

The author's writing style is engaging, offering a blend of historical facts, archaeological findings, and cultural insights. The narrative flow is smooth, making the complex historical information accessible to readers. The inclusion of quotes and references from archeologists like José Miguel de Barandiaran adds credibility to the content. While the book occasionally reads like a textbook, this stylistic choice does not detract from its overall quality. Therefore, I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars. The compelling arguments, supported by ample evidence, overshadowed any minor issues. I only found one error, so this book must be professionally edited. I recommend this outstanding book to those interested in historical texts, particularly narratives about indigenous cultures. 

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Exceptions to Their Rule
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