City of London Corporation to Research Historical Ties to Slave Trade

The administrative authority for London’s Square Mile intends to commission a study into its historical connections with the transatlantic slave trade. The City of London Corporation stated that this planned project, which will detail its links to the trade in enslaved African individuals, “will enable us to understand and own our past”. These plans were developed in anticipation of Lancaster University’s own research on the slave trade, which is slated for publication in 2026. This research, titled the Register of British Slave Traders, will feature a database illustrating any connections with individuals and institutions. Officials from the Corporation noted in a document that the university’s project is expected to reveal “a great many connections” with the City. The document further states: “It will also highlight how far the financial connections of individuals across the social spectrum benefited from the trade, and how much of their investments in our key foundational systems and institutions (such as schools) came from financial rewards gained from the trade.” The Corporation aims to conduct its own research, utilizing Lancaster University’s project as a foundation. The proposal, which is set to be presented to committees, suggests that £34,400 be allocated for the project. Prof William Pettigrew from Lancaster University, who serves as the principal investigator and editor for the Register of British Slave Traders, has been designated to carry out the proposed research. Should it receive approval, the work is anticipated to commence in January. In the Corporation’s document, officers mentioned that other institutions linked to the slave trade, including the Bank of England and the Church of England, have already undertaken studies examining their pasts. Explaining the reasoning behind the recommendation, officers stated: “Better understanding the connections of the corporation with the trade in enslaved African people will enable us to understand and own our past.” They further noted: “It will enable us to develop our narrative to address our history and to devise a communication plan for our staff, members and the wider public.” A spokesperson for the City of London Corporation commented: “We have a commitment to equity, equality, diversity, and inclusion, and to understanding our past.” Access the best of BBC Radio London on Sounds and engage with BBC London on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Submit your story concepts to hello.bbclondon@bbc.co.uk Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external websites. Information regarding our policy on external linking is available.