Overview

This compelling and important history of the British Empire, told from the perspective of 20 people who lived through it, tells the story of one of the largest and most powerful empires in human history. At one time, the British Empire ruled over almost a quarter of the worlds population. Men, women and children from all walks of life and from across the globe were affected in big and small ways, from the clothes they wore, the food they ate and the languages they spoke to the work they did and the rights they held. This legacy and impact is still evident all over the world today. This book shines a light on the human aspects of the Empire where the sun never sets, introducing readers to a host of figures, both powerful and modest, who lived through, challenged, and influenced the course of the British Empire. But how did this empire come to be? And what happened to the people whose lands were colonised? The people whose lives were touched? This book tells their stories and reclaims this chapter in history by giving voice to 0 real figures whose perspectives have often been ignored, overlooked or sidelined. Their stories are told in a first-person narrative style, allowing readers to see through the eyes of these inspiring history-keepers. From leaders and activists to poets and freedom fighters, the book features a range of figures from across five continents, shining a light on the human aspect of the British Empire. Meet Queen Nanny, the escaped slave who led a fight for freedom against the British in Jamaica. Hear the story of Rani of Jhansi, a key figure in the Indian resistance movement against British colonial rule. Learn about Tejonihokarawa, the Mohawk leader who travelled to London on a diplomatic mission. These engaging true stories of resistance, community, struggle and hope will spark conversations, foster a broader, decolonized understanding of the reaches and impacts of colonialism and ultimately leave readers inspired. After all, understanding our past and its echoes in our lives today is a step towards a better future.

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9780711266933

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Reviews

This pioneering book tells the history of the British Empire, its legacy and how it has shaped the UK today, through 25 real people's stories. * The Bookseller *

“This pioneering book tells the history of the British Empire, its legacy and how it has shaped the UK today, through 25 real people’s stories.” * The Bookseller *

Author Information

Radhika Natarajan is assistant professor of history and humanities at Reed College in Portland, Oregon. She is a historian of Modern Imperial Britain and her research focuses on decolonisation and citizenship in the British imperial world. Her syllabus on imperialism teaches how students how opposition to imperialism unites the struggles of our times, and to recognise empire is to take a necessary step towards a more just world. Chao Tayiana is a Kenyan digital humanities scholar and historian. For Chao, history is both a restorative and revolutionary act: a communion with her ancestors and a constant dialogue with the realities of her present. She is a co-founder of the Museum of British Colonialism, a volunteer collective working to communicate a more truthful account of British colonial history, where she leads digital engagement. She is also also a co-founder of the Open Restitution Africa project, an Africa-led initiative seeking to open up access to information on restitution of African material culture and human ancestors. Alexander Mostov is a Seattle-based illustrator whose work has been featured by Google, Facebook, and the Columbus Museum of Art. Previous books include D-Day: Untold Stories of the Normandy Landings Inspired by 20 Real-Life People published by Frances Lincoln Childrens Books, 2019.

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