Legacy of the British Empire

In the podcast episode, journalist and historian Sat-Nam Sangeera discusses his book 'Empire World' and explores the legacies of the British Empire. He reflects on his experiences during a trip to Barbados, where he couldn't help but think about the impact of British colonialism and the presence of the royal family in the Caribbean. Sangeera highlights the importance of understanding the history of the British Empire to make sense of current global affairs, from political conflicts to patterns of tax avoidance and the spread of democracy. He argues that it is crucial for Britain to reflect on its patchy histories on democracy, human rights, and the environment before lecturing other countries. Sangeera acknowledges the complexity of the British Empire's legacy, mentioning both positive and negative impacts, such as the spread of democracy and instability. He pushes back against the idea of a black and white view of the empire, emphasizing the need for nuanced understanding. Sangeera also discusses the role of racial science and the racialized divisions created by the empire, as well as its influence on America, citing parallels in settler colonialism and racial segregation. He concludes by proposing that the Commonwealth could serve as a platform for truth and reconciliation, providing a space to discuss and address the long-lasting effects of British imperialism.