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Black and British: A Short, Essential History
From Roman times to the present day this is the story of Black British history
A short, essential introduction to Black British history for readers of 12+ by award-winning historian and broadcaster David Olusoga.
When did Africans first come to Britain?
Who are the well-dressed black children in Georgian paintings?
Why did the American Civil War disrupt the Industrial Revolution?
These and many other questions are answered in this essential introduction to 1800 years of the Black British history: from the Roman Africans who guarded Hadrian’s Wall right up to the present day.
This new children's version of the bestseller Black and British: A Forgotten History is Illustrated with maps, photos and portraits.
A short, essential introduction to Black British history for readers of 12+ by award-winning historian and broadcaster David Olusoga.
When did Africans first come to Britain?
Who are the well-dressed black children in Georgian paintings?
Why did the American Civil War disrupt the Industrial Revolution?
These and many other questions are answered in this essential introduction to 1800 years of the Black British history: from the Roman Africans who guarded Hadrian’s Wall right up to the present day.
This new children's version of the bestseller Black and British: A Forgotten History is Illustrated with maps, photos and portraits.
176 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2020
98 people are currently reading
2083 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 274 reviews
June 11, 2021
This is an intelligent and clearly written assessment of Black people in Britain -- from Marcus Aurelius' Black Roman soldiers to the Black Lives Matter movement. Olusoga is a historian with an ability to communicate to his audience. This is a book for young adults or late primary school pupils. And adults who want to take in a broad sweep at one go. Black and British faces some real muddy waters, Sloughs of Despond, but Olusoga is a faithful guide. The book jigsaws facts, maps, stories, and key ideas, with true ease. Excellent in every aspect.
March 2, 2021
Such an important book and I learned so much—which sadly goes to show how much Black history has been left out of our school curriculums in the UK. Definitely will be recommending to people!
January 10, 2021
Such an important book for children and adults alike to read. There’s so much of our history to learn here that can inform how we live now and in the future. Will definitely be recommending!!
March 10, 2023
I'm disgusted by my whitewashed history lessons at school. It is, however, my responsibility to be educated however I can, and this was a brilliant start.
February 19, 2021
My only regret with this book is not reading it sooner. As a trainee History teacher I have gained so much from reading this. I loved how accessible it was and I will continue to refer back to this as a good starting point when planning lessons to incorporate this history.
Side note: I would love to see a version of this on black womens history!
Side note: I would love to see a version of this on black womens history!
April 17, 2024
4 STARS
CW: racism, slavery, police brutality, hate crime, war, death, racial slurs, violence
I really loved this book and pretty much from the beginning, I decided I need to get the version that is geared towards adults which will probably be more detailed than this one geared towards kids. This was very enlightening and I fully agree that Black history should be integrated into the school curriculum.
One fact that surprised me (and then I was a little frustrated with myself for not having questioned it sooner) was that before the slave trade began, people didn't distinguish between themselves based on skin color. I had never really thought about it too much but, of course, it makes sense that this distinction only really came into being in connection with slavery and having to explain and give some reason for why some people could be enslaved while others couldn't. I'm not saying it makes sense (it doesn't, it's utter horseshit) but what does make sense is that there was a need for an explanation of this sort to validate their actions.
It really is a shame that I had not heard about many of the historical figures that are mentioned in this book but this has shown me that I need to specifically seek out some works to educate myself in this regard. The book definitely would have been a five star but I was slightly annoyed that there was only minimal information. I'm aware that this book is for a young audience and that I am not in that target group, I think it's important to have this book and have kids read it. And I'm also happy that my lecturer assigned this version and not the longer one for class but still, I always wished there was more info about everything that was mentioned. Therefore, I will probably get the longer adult version of this book. The one-star reduction has nothing to do with the book or content, only with my own reading expectations.
CW: racism, slavery, police brutality, hate crime, war, death, racial slurs, violence
I really loved this book and pretty much from the beginning, I decided I need to get the version that is geared towards adults which will probably be more detailed than this one geared towards kids. This was very enlightening and I fully agree that Black history should be integrated into the school curriculum.
One fact that surprised me (and then I was a little frustrated with myself for not having questioned it sooner) was that before the slave trade began, people didn't distinguish between themselves based on skin color. I had never really thought about it too much but, of course, it makes sense that this distinction only really came into being in connection with slavery and having to explain and give some reason for why some people could be enslaved while others couldn't. I'm not saying it makes sense (it doesn't, it's utter horseshit) but what does make sense is that there was a need for an explanation of this sort to validate their actions.
It really is a shame that I had not heard about many of the historical figures that are mentioned in this book but this has shown me that I need to specifically seek out some works to educate myself in this regard. The book definitely would have been a five star but I was slightly annoyed that there was only minimal information. I'm aware that this book is for a young audience and that I am not in that target group, I think it's important to have this book and have kids read it. And I'm also happy that my lecturer assigned this version and not the longer one for class but still, I always wished there was more info about everything that was mentioned. Therefore, I will probably get the longer adult version of this book. The one-star reduction has nothing to do with the book or content, only with my own reading expectations.
May 18, 2022
Concise, informative and very important. I learned so much from it and I'll definitely be reading more on the subject. Highly recommended.
April 11, 2023
I bought this book by mistake when trying to buy the adult version (which is one of the best non-fiction books I've ever read.) This version is a concise tour of Black, British history for the younger audience.
I decided to read it for a recap. To cement my understanding and revise the key points from the parent book. It was engaging, interesting & essential.
If the adult volume feels like too much of a commitment: read this instead!
I decided to read it for a recap. To cement my understanding and revise the key points from the parent book. It was engaging, interesting & essential.
If the adult volume feels like too much of a commitment: read this instead!
November 26, 2020
I accidentally purchased this edition instead of the heftier Black and British - normally I would say curse online ordering however this was an easy and informative Sunday afternoon read. Great for younger readers for sure or just for starting out learning about black history.
January 7, 2021
Fantastic short overview of Black British history, should be in school libraries. Definitely want to read the longer work now and in print for future reference (&lesson plans).
April 5, 2021
What did I think?
I listened this in audiobook form and it was concise, fast-paced and very informative. 'Black and British' is a book which should be read by everyone.
I listened this in audiobook form and it was concise, fast-paced and very informative. 'Black and British' is a book which should be read by everyone.
January 6, 2021
Wieder ein so wichtiges Buch, dass ich wünschte alle würden es lesen. Es ist unglaublich, wie viel uns nicht beigebracht wird und wie viel wir aus der “Weißen Perspektive” lernen!
Das Buch ist eine Kursfassung, die auch an Kinder gerichtet ist. Aber eigentlich ist nur die Schrift etwas größer und es ist verständlich formuliert. Also auch super für Erwachsene geeignet, die einen Einblick in eine wichtige Geschichte haben wollen. Ich werde auf jeden Fall irgendwann die längere Version des Buches lesen, der Autor kann sich sehr gut ausdrücken und ich habe jetzt schon viel gelernt.
Das Buch ist eine Kursfassung, die auch an Kinder gerichtet ist. Aber eigentlich ist nur die Schrift etwas größer und es ist verständlich formuliert. Also auch super für Erwachsene geeignet, die einen Einblick in eine wichtige Geschichte haben wollen. Ich werde auf jeden Fall irgendwann die längere Version des Buches lesen, der Autor kann sich sehr gut ausdrücken und ich habe jetzt schon viel gelernt.
November 4, 2024
For me, as a Black and British young adult whose grandparents were a part of the Windrush generation, this book was a very important read. My Dad read this at work and thoroughly liked it, and so he lent me this book to read. I was not disappointed. It was very interesting to see what actually happened all those years ago as British history in school usually only covers Black American history and only touches the surface of Britain's involvement during the salve trade. This book is very educational and emotional. It's definitely worth a read!
December 30, 2020
5 ⭐
This book was a really interesting read, covering the history of black people who have been in Britain since the Roman invasion. There is so much information to read in this book, it is definitely a recommended read!
There is a lot to take in with this and would be a good place to start for young readers, and also for older readers too. This is done in a way that can be read by all and is done in a way that is honest and factual. It also provides the reader with a good starting point to look further and wider into the topics and events discussed in this book.
The history of black people in Britain is not discussed fully and so the picture we are taught is very skewed and negatively biased to those who are not white, so the true history of Britain is forgotten...
History like this must be made more accessible and not hidden. So much has been achieved that has not been discussed so is lost which is wrong.
Using photos and other images, the past is made accessible and clear. This is very much a recommended book for everyone, so if you see it listed, please do read it!
This book was a really interesting read, covering the history of black people who have been in Britain since the Roman invasion. There is so much information to read in this book, it is definitely a recommended read!
There is a lot to take in with this and would be a good place to start for young readers, and also for older readers too. This is done in a way that can be read by all and is done in a way that is honest and factual. It also provides the reader with a good starting point to look further and wider into the topics and events discussed in this book.
The history of black people in Britain is not discussed fully and so the picture we are taught is very skewed and negatively biased to those who are not white, so the true history of Britain is forgotten...
History like this must be made more accessible and not hidden. So much has been achieved that has not been discussed so is lost which is wrong.
Using photos and other images, the past is made accessible and clear. This is very much a recommended book for everyone, so if you see it listed, please do read it!
August 1, 2022
seriously so great + informative — should be required reading!!!
May 12, 2022
Listened on Audio/Borrow Box on way to work. Children’s version - simple and informative. So much basic history that I had no idea about! Wow. We need to wake up. Everyone should read/listen to this. Will now move to the More thorough adult version.
April 19, 2021
Read in advance of reading with my son. This is a very accessible, educational history textbook, aimed at older children but also perfect for everyone wanting to learn more. Reading this has made me want to read David Olusoga's original book, Black and British.
January 10, 2021
Such an informative and interesting book. It gives you an overview of the black history in the United Kingdom and it made me intrigued to read the "in-depth" version of this book!
January 24, 2021
FANTASTIC. Essential reading. I learned SO much and then cried at the end.
July 18, 2022
5 stars
Me? Reading non-fiction? Never. Unless,,,
This was a really quick, succinct and well-written book which covered a lot of stuff that the education system *conveniently* chooses to ignore. I was a bit iffy about the discussion about Haitian independence without any mention of the fact Haiti then had to pay France compensation for being so kind as to surrender in a war they were losing, crippling the Haitian economy in the process, but then again, it was a British history book so perhaps Olusoga didn't want to get bogged down. Either way, I really enjoyed it and felt I learnt a lot - there's really nothing more I could ask from it. It's super accessible, and while it's marketed as for younger readers (probably about twelve is the sweet spot?) it manages the feat that some writers who solely write kids books fail to achieve by not being extremely patronising, so I would recommend to all, although older readers might enjoy the adult version more - I wouldn't know because I haven't read it :(
Me? Reading non-fiction? Never. Unless,,,
This was a really quick, succinct and well-written book which covered a lot of stuff that the education system *conveniently* chooses to ignore. I was a bit iffy about the discussion about Haitian independence without any mention of the fact Haiti then had to pay France compensation for being so kind as to surrender in a war they were losing, crippling the Haitian economy in the process, but then again, it was a British history book so perhaps Olusoga didn't want to get bogged down. Either way, I really enjoyed it and felt I learnt a lot - there's really nothing more I could ask from it. It's super accessible, and while it's marketed as for younger readers (probably about twelve is the sweet spot?) it manages the feat that some writers who solely write kids books fail to achieve by not being extremely patronising, so I would recommend to all, although older readers might enjoy the adult version more - I wouldn't know because I haven't read it :(
August 31, 2023
I often struggle with non fiction books but since this is aimed at young adults / children(?) this is written so clearly and well and does not require prior knowledge from you. There are a few bits that could have been expanded but that’s inevitable with a summarised view of history.
Ashamed at how little of this I knew before, it’s such a quick and interesting read - would highly recommend to other adults!
Ashamed at how little of this I knew before, it’s such a quick and interesting read - would highly recommend to other adults!
March 23, 2023
#BorrowBox
#audiobook
#childrensbooks
#nonfiction
#davidolusoga
Absolutely fascinating read , made British black history interesting and so much than just about the slave trade. An easy listen a great way to learn or for just pleasure.
#audiobook
#childrensbooks
#nonfiction
#davidolusoga
Absolutely fascinating read , made British black history interesting and so much than just about the slave trade. An easy listen a great way to learn or for just pleasure.
Read
June 1, 2023Great tool for teachers! Calling all Historians, Geographers, Social Scientists, EDI Leads...
November 7, 2020
This is a must read for all of us. David Olusoga writes beautifully to bring this essential history not only to younger readers but also to adults.
May 18, 2021
David Olusoga perfectly demonstrates how important Black history is to gaining any understanding about Britain. I'm a history graduate. I studied history at GCSE, A Level and University and only at undergraduate level was Black British history available as a focus. Sure, I learnt about segregation in America at A-level but was left completely in the dark about Black history in Britain throughout my entire state school education. We're taught about the First and Second World War's at primary school in the UK - but the role Black people and POC played is not mentioned ONCE. Even slavery is taught through the lens of the US. The audacity of the hypocrisy reaches new heights with that one.
Without introducing Black British history into the curriculum, children and young people learn a warped version of the history of Britain.
Olusoga perfectly demonstrates how Black British history could and should be taught throughout schools. This is what it should look like. If you have young people in your life, or you want to start learning more about British history, this is a fantastic place to start.
Without introducing Black British history into the curriculum, children and young people learn a warped version of the history of Britain.
Olusoga perfectly demonstrates how Black British history could and should be taught throughout schools. This is what it should look like. If you have young people in your life, or you want to start learning more about British history, this is a fantastic place to start.
May 12, 2021
David Olusoga is cited as being a expert in military history. Lol. I'm sorry, but this book is littered with inaccuarte statements and what can only be read as an outright lie. Really poor research or worse, complete lies. How do people get away with it is beyond me.
October 22, 2021
Don't believe it, don't buy into it. Just don't buy it. So many untruths, or lies. Wholly inaccurate rubbish history being fed to kids. Another overblown fairy tale by Olusoga.
February 16, 2022
Hadn't realised this was for children until I started reading, but was still very interesting.
September 25, 2022
Brilliant informative read
Designed for KS3+ readers, but more than suitable for adults who are looking for an introduction into this area of history
Easily digestible and accessible writing style
Designed for KS3+ readers, but more than suitable for adults who are looking for an introduction into this area of history
Easily digestible and accessible writing style
June 8, 2023
non fiction is defo not a genre i usually read or enjoy for that matter but my sixth form was giving out free books and this was one of them, i feel like i’ve learned so much that i never knew before
Displaying 1 - 30 of 274 reviews