together – they define things and ultimately us. A reader of Jamaica Kincaid’s writings probably knows that her writings explore colonialism and imperialism, and if not, will learn of this in her essay “In History”. The question “What is history?” is repeated several times throughout Jamaica Kincaid’s essay. Initially, it appears Kincaid is exploring where history begins and what constitutes history. However on closer examination, it is apparent she is exploring the significance of names and naming