Black and British: A Forgotten History

Season 1

Documents the history of Black people in Britain and its colonies, starting with those who arrived as part of the Roman occupation, and relates that history to modern Black British identity.

Where to Watch Season 1

4 Episodes

First Encounters
E1
First EncountersHistorian David Olusoga explores the enduring relationship between Britain and people whose origins lie in Africa. From the African Romans who guarded Hadrian's Wall in the 3rd century AD, to the black trumpeter of the Tudor courts, David uncovers a history that is as surprising as it is revealing.
Freedom
E2
FreedomIn the second part of his four-part series, historian David Olusoga explores the business of slavery and remembers the black sailors who fought for Britain at Trafalgar. He also celebrates a Georgian boxing superstar and the men and women who crossed continents in pursuit of freedom.
Moral Mission
E3
Moral MissionIn part three of this groundbreaking series, historian David Olusoga explores the Victorian moral crusade against slavery. He finds out how Queen Victoria came to have a black god-daughter, why the mill workers of Rochdale stood in solidarity with enslaved Africans in the American South, and remembers the victims of a tragedy in Jamaica.
The Homecoming
E4
The HomecomingHistorian David Olusoga concludes his series with the three African kings who stood up to Empire, an irresistible crooner, race riots in Liverpool and the shaping of black British identity in the 20th century.