The essay uses ethnographic studies to provide insights into the history and historiography of the African-Atlantic winter celebration known alternately as Jankunu, John Canoe, Jonkonnu, Junkanoo, or John Kuner, celebrated in English-speaking areas of the Caribbean and Central America. Some of the subjects include the festival's religious and/or secular nature, 19th century accounts of the festivals originally held by slaves, and similar West African festivals.
