politics

‘These connections are overlooked’: how British companies profited from slavery in Brazil long after abolition

17 Mart 2026The Guardian

🤖AI Özeti

Historian Joseph Mulhern highlights the overlooked connections between British companies and slavery in Brazil, particularly after the abolition of slavery in the UK. In 1845, while British citizens were prohibited from owning enslaved people, a British mining company, St John d’El Rey, 'rented' 385 captives, a practice not deemed illegal under the 1843 Slave Trade Act. This situation reflects a complex narrative of Britain's involvement in slavery, often presented in a self-congratulatory manner.

💡AI Analizi

The historical narrative surrounding Britain's role in slavery tends to gloss over the nuances of post-abolition practices that continued to exploit enslaved individuals. The case of St John d’El Rey illustrates how legal loopholes allowed British companies to profit from slavery long after it was officially abolished. This raises important questions about accountability and the legacy of colonialism that still resonates today.

📚Bağlam ve Tarihsel Perspektif

The article sheds light on the ongoing discussions about the impact of colonialism and slavery on modern economies, particularly in the context of British historical narratives that often focus on abolition without addressing the complexities of continued exploitation. It serves as a reminder of the need for a more nuanced understanding of history.

This article reflects the views of the author and does not necessarily represent the views of The Guardian.