Africa and Britain: A Forgotten History Season 1 Episode 1 First Encounters

In the first episode of Africa and Britain: A Forgotten History, titled First Encounters, we are taken back in time to the very first interactions between the peoples of Africa and Britain.

The episode begins with a look at some of the earliest artifacts found in Great Britain, which reveal that there were people living on the island as far back as 800,000 years ago. These early settlers would have likely had contact with other peoples around the world, including those from Africa.

The show then delves into the early trade routes that connected Britain to the rest of the world, including through the Sahara desert, which facilitated the movement of gold, salt, and other valuable resources. This connection between Africa and Britain would continue to play a significant role in shaping both cultures for centuries to come.

As the episode progresses, we learn about some of the earliest recorded contacts between African and British peoples. One notable encounter took place in 1554, when Queen Mary I of England married King Philip II of Spain, who had a strong presence in North Africa. This marriage opened up new trade routes and relationships between Britain and Africa.

The show also examines the story of John Lok, an English merchant who played a key role in establishing trade between Britain and West Africa in the late 16th century. Lok's expeditions brought him into contact with the ruler of the powerful Kingdom of Benin, who were known for their impressive art and wealth. The encounter between Lok and the Kingdom of Benin would have a significant impact on British perceptions of Africa, shaping the way the region was viewed for generations.

Throughout the episode, we also learn about the impact of the slave trade on the relationship between Africa and Britain. The show takes us to the British Museum to examine the infamous Benin Bronzes - works of art that were looted from the Kingdom of Benin during a violent British invasion in the late 19th century. This act of violence would come to symbolize Britain's association with the horror of the slave trade for many African peoples.

The episode concludes with a look at the complex social and cultural interactions between Africa and Britain during the colonial era. We learn about the role of African soldiers in fighting for Britain during World War I, and the difficult transition to independence after the war had ended.

Overall, First Encounters is a fascinating and thought-provoking look at the long and complicated history between Africa and Britain. By exploring the earliest interactions between these two cultures, the show sets the stage for a deeper understanding of the complexities and challenges that have shaped their relationship over time.