England
Country notes
England’s involvement in the trans-Atlantic slave trade began in the early 17th century, becoming one of the leading participants by the 18th century. English traders transported approximately 3.1 million Africans, primarily from regions in modern-day Nigeria, Ghana, and Sierra Leone. The slaves were taken to English colonies in the Caribbean, including Jamaica, Barbados, and the Leeward Islands, as well as to the American colonies. The English slave trade was driven by the demand for labour on sugar, tobacco, and cotton plantations, which were crucial to the British colonial economy. The infamous Middle Passage, a term describing the horrific sea journey endured by slaves, was a significant part of this trade. England’s role in the slave trade was formally abolished with the passing of the Abolition of the Slave Trade Act in 1807, and slavery itself was abolished throughout the British Empire in 1833.
Recognition and apology
The United Kingdom has formally recognized its role in the trans-Atlantic slave trade. In 2006, then-Prime Minister Tony Blair expressed “deep sorrow” for Britain’s role in slavery, which was seen as a quasi-apology. In a much recent position on this issue, (the then) Prince Charles described the trade as appalling. Nevertheless, despite a lot of pressure being mounted on the government to do so, the official policy has been not to issue an apology for it.
The Church of England was possibly the largest body in England that was actively involved in the slave trade and profited immensely from it. The Church has issued official apologies for its involvement in it.
Making amends
The UK has not provided formal reparations. Many critics continue to argue that the UK’s recognition that something appalling happened and the expression of deep sorrow are empty words that lack any seriousness. And they point to the issues of the Benin Bronzes and the Ghana artifacts as clear indication of the lack of seriousness on the part of the UK government.
