Slavery - The Hidden History 2 Black Radical Abolitionists
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Thu 15 March 2007 // 19:30
(Thu 15th / 7.30 pm Lecture & Panel Discussion; 9.30 pm DJ and Social / £2)
March 2007 marks the 200th anniversary of the abolition of the slave trade in the British Empire. One of the turning points in the campaign to abolish the slave trade was the 1789 publication of The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano, or Gustavus Vassa, the African. Despite the publication of multiple abolitionist tracts, this indictment of slavery, written by a former slave, had a massive impact on the British population. Similarly, the actions of former slaves energized radical movements for abolition and democracy in 19th century Britain. Who were these revolutionaries? How did they alter the political landscape of their time?
Ruth Symister, Head of Year at Whitefield School, is currently championing Equianoâ's text as required reading in Bristol schools. She will be explaining the literary significance and historical value of Equianoâ's poignant memoir. South London Radical History Group has been publicizing the history of black radicals in London. Members will discuss their work and the significance of these historically neglected figures in the movements for enfranchisement and emancipation.
March 2007 marks the 200th anniversary of the abolition of the slave trade in the British Empire. One of the turning points in the campaign to abolish the slave trade was the 1789 publication of The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano, or Gustavus Vassa, the African. Despite the publication of multiple abolitionist tracts, this indictment of slavery, written by a former slave, had a massive impact on the British population. Similarly, the actions of former slaves energized radical movements for abolition and democracy in 19th century Britain. Who were these revolutionaries? How did they alter the political landscape of their time?
Ruth Symister, Head of Year at Whitefield School, is currently championing Equianoâ's text as required reading in Bristol schools. She will be explaining the literary significance and historical value of Equianoâ's poignant memoir. South London Radical History Group has been publicizing the history of black radicals in London. Members will discuss their work and the significance of these historically neglected figures in the movements for enfranchisement and emancipation.