Economic and Social Impact of the Slave Trade on Britain

Flashcards covering the economic and social effects of the slave trade on Britain during the Tudor and Stuart times.

What was Britain's economic role in the slave trade?

Britain made some of the largest profits from the slave trade, supported by investors including monarchs like Queen Elizabeth and King Charles II.

Which British monarchs were involved in the slave trade?

Queen Elizabeth partnered with John Hawkins, providing ships for slave trading; King Charles II was involved with the Royal African Company.

Who in Britain benefited from the slave trade?

Shipbuilders, ship owners, bankers, investors, importers, dockworkers, factory workers, and shop owners all benefited financially from the slave trade.

What was the scale of the British slave trade industry's profits?

The industry made approximately £60 million between 1761 and 1808, contributing to Britain's wealth and power.

How did the slave trade impact British cities?

West coast towns like Liverpool, Glasgow, and Bristol grew into large cities, and many buildings were financed by slave trade profits.

Give an example of buildings that were paid for with the proceeds of slavery

Liverpool Town Hall and the National Portrait Gallery in London were paid for with the proceeds of slavery

Who in British governance was involved in the slave trade?

Many mayors of Liverpool and members of Parliament were slave traders.

What social belief was reinforced by the slave trade in Britain?

The slave trade led to the belief that Europeans were superior to Africans.

When did Britain abolish the slave trade and slave ownership?

In 1807, the British parliament abolished the slave trade, and in 1833, it banned slave ownership throughout the British Empire.