Claimed benefits of the British Empire
The British Empire was once the most extensive empire in history and is often depicted as civilising the colonies that it ruled, bringing many benefits. These claims include contributions to …
Articles
The history of New Year celebrations: A journey through time
The start of a new year is a time of renewal and hope and has been observed by civilisations across the world for thousands of years. While the modern-day festivities on 1 January have their roots in …
The 1795 slave revolt of Curaçao
The island of Curaçao has witnessed one of the most significant but often overlooked acts of resistance against colonial oppression. The 1795 slave revolt, led by Tula Rigaud, Louis Mercier, Bastian …
Celebrating 31 Days of Black History
The theme of this year’s UK Black History Month is ‘Reclaiming Narratives’. To celebrate, we’ll be publishing videos daily that celebrate the achievements of Black people in …
Cultural transformations in India: The abolition of historical practices
India, with its deep cultural heritage and long history, has been home to various social customs, rituals, and traditions. While many of these practices celebrate the richness and diversity of Indian …
Queen Amina of Zaria: The legendary warrior queen of West Africa
Queen Amina of Zaria, also known as Amina of Zazzau, was a formidable leader and warrior in the 16th century. She ruled over the Hausa city-state of Zazzau (modern-day Zaria) in present-day northern …
Anténor Firmin: Haitian anthropologist
Joseph Auguste Anténor Firmin (1850-1911), better known as Anténor Firmin, was a remarkable Haitian intellectual whose contributions to anthropology, journalism, and politics remain influential today. …
Reclaiming Narratives: The theme of Black History Month 2024
Black History Month in the UK has always been a time for reflection, celebration, and education. Each October, communities across the country come together to honour the contributions of Black people, …
Professor Dame Elizabeth Anionwu: A trailblazer in sickle cell research and advocacy
Professor Dame Elizabeth Anionwu (born Elizabeth Mary Furlong)is a remarkable figure whose work has had a huge impact on the understanding and treatment of sickle cell disease. This genetic condition …
International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and Its Abolition: A day to reflect and educate
Every year on 23 August the world pauses to commemorate the International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and Its Abolition. This significant observance, established by UNESCO in 1998, …
Afro-Caribbean religions: Voodoo, Santería, and Obeah
Afro-Caribbean religions, such as Voodoo, Santería, and Obeah, are complex spiritual practices that have evolved over centuries, deeply rooted in the history and cultures of Africa and the Caribbean. …
The Freedom Riders: A challenge to segregation in America
The Freedom Riders were a group of brave civil rights activists who embarked on a series of bus trips through the American South to challenge the entrenched system of racial segregation in interstate …