Three times Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, Hubert Alexander Ingraham was the man who shattered the power of a 25-year political dynasty. I Say What I Mean and I Mean What I Say: Hubert A. Ingraham in His Own Words Vol. 1 is the first of a three-volume collection of significant speeches and statements by the Rt. Hon. Hubert A. Ingraham, given over the 35 years of his career in frontline politics. This first volume encapsulates Ingraham’s remarks on the primary subjects that coloured and energized his political life: Politics, Democracy and Good Government, Public Sector Reform, Local Government, Human Rights, Labour, and International Affairs. Historians and politicians will be afforded a novel and tantalizing insight into the inner workings of a small but dynamic nation and, perhaps, gain a greater appreciation for The Bahamas’ evolution, without bloodshed, from more than three hundred years as a colony of Britain to an independent and politically stable nation. Then, too, there is much awaiting those who simply enjoy a good read. The books gives a fascinating account of the means by which Hubert Ingraham, a man of humblest beginnings rose above an entrenched political hierarchy to impact Bahamian life and international events and relations. Evident early on in its pages is Ingraham’s sense of a national destiny and his love and respect for the people of the North Abaco constituency he served from 1977 to 2012. As visible is his relish of politics, government and a good gloves-off fight. His remarks centre on the institutions of government-parliament, cabinet, the public service and struggles to win key general elections, which changed the course of The Bahamas’ history and international standing. A firm believer in transparency and accountability in government and a strong supporter of a free press, Ingraham was committed throughout his public life to accounting for his actions in office to the people whom he represented and led. As a result, he spoke often, not only in Parliament but also at a myriad of public events and meetings and engaged with the media regularly. He did it all while gaining global respect for his mastery in a highly contested arena. Ingraham’s remarks demonstrate not only the consistency of his message over the years but his understanding of the importance of language, spoken and written, in shaping political debate and national dialogue on matters important to the development of public policy. Subsequent volumes will compile Mr. Ingraham’ s remarks on national fiscal and economic affairs and on national social development.