"Contrary to what public history and popular literature might have led us to believe, Nantucket is historically an island of rich cultural diversity. Here, author Frances Ruley Karttunen introduces us to the original Nantucketers -- the Wampanoags -- as well as to African slaves, Pacific Islanders, Irish refugees, Azoreans, and Cape Verdeans who over the years have found a home on Nantucket. Here, too, is a look at the island's connection to Jamaica, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia -- all sources of people who have contributed to the island's economy and added dimensions to Nantucket's culture" -- Back cover.