of the College Library host a talk by Professor Virginia Bernhard on her book, Slaves and Slaveholders in Bermuda, 1616-1782.

Professor Bernhard became interested in the Island's history when she discovered an old document at the Huntington Library.

At first she knew little about Bermuda but after spending an afternoon in the Bermuda Archives during her 1980 visit, her interest was piqued.

Her book jacket reads: "Slaves and Slaveholders in Bermuda offers a fresh perspective on the complex relationship between racism and slavery in Bermuda.

Professor Bernhard believes the past relationship between slaves and slaveholders was the reason why in 1980 a population of two-third black and one-third white had apparent goodwill and good manners toward each other.

Dr. Clarence Maxwell, who read the book and wrote his thesis on slavery, said that Professor Bernhard's conclusions may cause consternation among some Bermudian historians.

He said: "Professor Bernhard bases her discussion on three premises. She contends that each society had its own peculiar brand of slavery.

"That slavery in Bermuda in the main was milder than anywhere else. And if it was milder, it was because of the socioeconomic and environmental factors in Bermuda.'' The book can be purchased from the College Bookstore and will be available for signing.

Professor Bernhard will be speaking at the Bermuda College Library at 7 p.m.

on Saturday.

BERMUDA COLLEGE EDC BOOKS BKS