Black England
A Forgotten Georgian History
Format:Paperback
Publisher:John Murray Press
Published:14th Sep '23
Should be back in stock very soon
This book reveals the rich, complex history of the Black community in Georgian Britain, showcasing their struggles and achievements during a tumultuous era.
In Black England, the author delves into the rich and often overlooked history of the Black community in Georgian Britain. This compelling narrative highlights the lives of individuals who thrived in a society that was both vibrant and oppressive. With a foreword by Zadie Smith, the book sets the stage for a profound exploration of the social dynamics that shaped the experiences of Black Georgians, from the elite to the newly freed slaves. The author meticulously uncovers the existence of special churches and Black-only social events that fostered a sense of community amidst the prevailing racial tensions.
Through detailed research and engaging storytelling, Black England brings to light the stories of both triumph and adversity faced by its subjects. While many achieved respect and recognition, they lived under the constant threat of kidnapping and forced servitude. This duality of existence illustrates the complexities of life for Black individuals during this period and challenges the common narratives that often overlook their contributions and struggles.
Overall, Black England serves as an essential reminder of the diverse tapestry of British history. It invites readers to reconsider the origins of Black British history, emphasizing that it did not begin with the Windrush generation. By sharing these powerful stories, the book encourages a deeper understanding of the past and its relevance to contemporary discussions about race and identity.
In the 1990s, an assistant in a London bookshop informed the African American historian Gretchen Gerzina that there "were no black people in England before 1945". Gerzina effectively disproved that assertion by going on to write the classic book on black people in Georgian London, Black England -- DAVID OLUSOGA * Guardian *
Wonderfully vivid, multifaceted and engrossing . . . this book brings history alive -- BERNARDINE EVARISTO
Black England taught me more history than I ever learned at school. This book helped me to understand the history that my generation are making now. To say that it is groundbreaking is stating the obvious. Black England is part of our canon. With books like this to guide us, we are unstoppable. Gretchen Gerzina tells it as it was, so we know how it is. Black England is a book that will be relevant for ever -- BENJAMIN ZEPHANIAH
A classic that deserves to be read . . . indeed, needs to be read, Black England is deeply researched, lucidly written and utterly fascinating. If you ever thought Black British history began with Windrush, read this book - this is a story we should all know -- GREG JENNER
Gerzina brings the world of the Black Georgians to intriguing life, introducing us to the era's most fascinating individuals while placing them in the wider story of the struggle against enslavement. It is a treat to have a pioneer of the field bring together all the latest scholarship to tell this important part of British history for a wide audience -- MIRANDA KAUFMANN, author of Black Tudors
The admirable clarity of Black England should win it many admirers. Gerzina's book should take its rightful place alongside the work of her predecessors -- CARYL PHILLIPS
Black England is well-researched, with interesting quotes throughout and has a number of 'I didn't know that!' moments as Gerzina throws up surprising snippets of information, such as the existence of an entirely black brothel in London catering for the nobility . . . charting the progress of the anti-slavery moment in England, Gerzina highlights the mixed and often murky motives held by white abolitionists who are often less altruistic than might be expected. This is echoed in Zadie Smith's passionate and insightful foreword * Morning Star *
ISBN: 9781399804905
Dimensions: 196mm x 128mm x 28mm
Weight: 240g
304 pages