Fresh insights into the Black presence in British History

I am pleased to introduce two new articles on the Historycal Roots website that illustrate the diversity of Black British history in microcosm.

First, John Ellis introduces us to ‘Black Troop’, the 11th (Prince Albert’s Own) Hussars 1815-1838. Although the ‘Black’ refers to the colour of their horses, John has identified three Black soldiers within their ranks:

https://www.historycalroots.com/black-troop-the-black-soldiers-of-the-11th-prince-alberts-own-hussars-1815-1838/

Second, leaping forward to the 20th century, Audrey Dewjee continues to shine a light on the presence of Black women in the ranks of the ATS during World War 2, naming 157 women who served their country in this way:

https://www.historycalroots.com/caribbean-women-in-the-ats-from-mid-1943-onwards/

Members of the first group of volunteers at their training centre, including Ena Collymore back row centre and Norma Marsh, back row right. Image courtesy National Army Museum, London

Over a century apart, these are two more examples of a presence that dates back at least to Roman times.