Olusoga, a renowned historian and broadcaster, brings both academic rigor and compelling storytelling to this vital reexamination of shared history. His prose is clear and passionate, making complex historical narratives accessible to a wide audience. As a reader, I was struck by Olusoga’s ability to weave together individual stories with broader historical trends, bringing to life forgotten figures and events that have shaped the nation.
The book challenges the notion that Black history in Britain began with the Windrush generation. Instead, Olusoga reveals a long-standing Black presence in the British Isles, from African soldiers in Roman Britain to Elizabethan “blackamoors” and the impact of the slave trade on the Industrial Revolution. He also highlights the contributions of Black Britons in key historical moments, including the World Wars.
“Black and British” is essential reading for anyone seeking a more complete and honest understanding of British history. It confronts uncomfortable truths about the nation’s past while celebrating the resilience and achievements of Black Britons throughout the centuries. Olusoga’s work not only fills gaps in our historical knowledge but also provides crucial context for contemporary discussions on race and identity in Britain.
Questions to ponder:
1. How has your understanding of British history changed after reading this book?
2. In what ways do you see the legacy of this “forgotten history” in contemporary British society?
3. How might incorporating this broader historical narrative impact current debates on race and national identity?
