Why was the creation of the British Empire not always covered in glory? - Presentation

The creation of the British Empire is a complex chapter in history that is not solely marked by triumphs but also by significant controversies. The empire was formed over centuries, and while it brought economic benefits to Britain, it also involved practices that are now widely condemned. A critical aspect that casts a shadow over the empire's legacy is its involvement in the transatlantic slave trade. British society and government reaped considerable financial gains from the colonies, yet this wealth was often built on the exploitation and subjugation of colonised peoples. The indigenous populations were forced to abandon their customs and laws in favour of British ones, frequently under the threat or use of force. The impact of these actions is still felt today, and it is essential to acknowledge these aspects of British history to fully understand the empire's complex legacy.

Linking the British Empire to slavery, the curriculum delves into the Atlantic Slave Trade, a grim period during which millions of Africans were forcibly taken to work in the American colonies and the West Indies. The trade was a triangular system, with Britain shipping goods to Africa, exchanging them for slaves, who were then transported to the Americas to work on plantations, and the resulting raw materials like sugar and cotton were shipped back to Europe. This trade enriched Britain and funded its expansion, but at a tremendous human cost. The inhumane treatment of enslaved people, including brutal transportation conditions known as the 'middle passage' and the lack of legal protection in the colonies, is a stark reminder of the empire's darker side. Recognising these facts is crucial for a balanced understanding of Britain's past and its rise to global prominence.