Martinique is well-known for its rum. This alcoholic beverage made from sugarcane can be found everywhere on the island. It is enjoyed by many, but it can be so harmful if used to an excess. In the 1950’s a person could go into a bar and get a brimful glass of rum for only 50 centimes (about 10 cents, U.S.). A bottle of rum, a bottle of syrup, and a few slices of local green lemon were placed before the customer, and he was allowed to help himself.

On a map of Martinique, the island seems to curl around the bay of Fort-de-France. Without any doubt, it is here that the heart of the territory is situated. Along the north side of the bay, there are three overlapping urban agglomerations—Fort-de-France, Schoelcher, and Le Lamentin. Close to half the population of Martinique lives in this region. With the exception of agriculture, most of the island’s activities are concentrated here. It was in this area that the preaching of the good news was done first, and with just a few exceptions, the first publishers came from here.