Forgotten But Influential Black Britons
Black British Figures Significant To The 18th and 19th Century
Traditional depictions of British history have often overlooked the significant presence and contributions of the African diaspora, which has been a part of Britain for centuries. Despite facing considerable adversity, many Black British figures made lasting cultural impacts. Black History Month offers a fitting opportunity to remember these influential but often forgotten individuals.
Mary Seacole – Pioneering Nurse In The Crimean War
Born to a Scottish father and a Jamaican mother, Mary Seacole sought to serve as a nurse in the Crimean War. Despite being rejected by the War Office, she persevered, traveling to the frontlines and establishing the ‘British Hotel’ near Balaclava, where she cared for sick and wounded soldiers. While her work during the war paralleled that of Florence Nightingale, Seacole’s contributions were largely forgotten for nearly a century after her death. More recently, Mary has gained more attention, however, and there is a statue of her outside St.Thomas’ Hospital in London today (pictured).
Ignatius Sancho (c. 1729–1780) – Britain’s First Black Voter
Ignatius Sancho was born on a slave ship and brought to Britain in bondage. Despite his early circumstances, he rose to prominence as a composer and writer. His letters, published posthumously, made him the first African prose writer in England. In 1774, he became the first known Black Briton to vote in parliamentary elections, marking a historic moment in British history.
Ira Aldridge (1807–1867) – Trailblazing Shakespearean Actor
Discriminated against in America, Ira Aldridge moved to Britain, where he became one of the most accomplished actors of his time, particularly in Shakespearean roles. Aldridge’s performances were widely praised, and he remains the only actor of African-American descent to be honoured with a bronze plaque at the Shakespeare Memorial Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Sarah Forbes Bonetta (1843–1880) – A Royal Protégé
Born as Aina, the daughter of a West African ruler, Sarah was kidnapped and presented as a “diplomatic gift” to Captain Frederick Forbes of the HMS Bonetta. Brought to England in 1850, Sarah was introduced to Queen Victoria, who became her guardian and funded her education. Sarah frequently visited the Queen and maintained a close relationship with the royal family throughout her life.
Olaudah Equiano (c. 1745–1797) – Abolitionist And Author
Kidnapped into slavery at age 11, Olaudah Equiano endured years of bonded labour before purchasing his freedom. He spent two decades traveling the world and, in 1786, joined the Sons of Africa, a group of Black abolitionists campaigning to end slavery. His autobiography, The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano, published in 1789, was one of the first books written by a Black African in Britain and achieved great success, helping to further the abolitionist cause.
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