Season 1
The First Black Britons is a British documentary film produced by Sweet Patootee which focuses on the hidden history of the British West Indies Regiment, and a unique act of parliament that established them as a new class of citizen - Black British.
The documentary originally aired in the UK on BBC2 on 27 October, 2005. It is an hour long.
The First Black Britons aired in South Africa for the first time on DStv's The History Channel on Saturday 26 April 2008, at 20h30.
Repeats
Sunday 27 April: 08h30, 14h30
Synopsis
This programme takes viewers on an epic and historical journey. It outlines the incredible hidden history of the British West Indies Regiment, and a unique act of parliament that established them as a new class of citizen: 'Black British'.
We return to an era in which colonial attitudes were challenged and notions of Britishness were redefined.
We examine the period between 1795 to 1927, looking at events in London, West Africa and the Caribbean. We tell the stories of William Pitt (the younger), William Wilberforce, Queen Victoria and Sergeant William Gordon V.C.
We also relate the previously unheard stories of the slaves of Britain's sugar colonies.
With the bicentenary of the decision to end the British Slave Trade fast approaching, this powerful story uncovers a unique social and historical record.
During the Napoleonic Wars, Britain sent around 97,000 European troops to fight in the Caribbean, but seventy percent were killed by Malaria and yellow fever.
To bolster their forces, Britain raised a slave army, which enjoyed amazing success against the French. Within three years, there were no less than twelve West India Regiments numbering 11,000 men.
The West Indies Regiment became so vital to British interests that the government freed every man by special act of parliament - 30 years before official emancipation.
They received the same uniforms, weapons, training, pay and conditions as white troops; they were also taught to read and write.
The show also comprehensively outlines the Caribbean’s frequently overlooked role in the Napoleonic wars. In 1793, fighting in the region triggered a national emergency, which led Britain's abolitionist Prime Minister, William Pitt (the Younger) to create an entire regiment of slaves.
Over the next century, Pitt's 'warrior-caste' defended British interests in the Caribbean, helping to forge Britain's imperial identity.