The Intelligence from The Economist The Weekend Intelligence: The Apology
Oct 27, 2024
Charlie McCann, an Economist reporter, and Charles Gladstone, a descendant of slave-owner Sir John Gladstone, explore the deep waters of inherited guilt and reconciliation. They discuss the Gladstone family's apology in Guyana for their ancestor's role in slavery. The conversation sheds light on the broader reparations debate emerging among Commonwealth nations. With personal anecdotes, they address the emotional weight of acknowledging such a legacy while highlighting the complexities and societal implications of their family's historical ties to exploitation.
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Gladstone Family History
- The Gladstone family discovered their ancestors were prominent slave owners.
- They owned 2,500 enslaved Africans in Jamaica and Demerara.
Arrival in Guyana
- Upon arriving in Guyana, the Gladstones were met with protesters.
- The protesters held signs calling the family murderers.
Discovering Family History
- Charlie Gladstone learned about his family's involvement in slavery during the 2020 Black Lives Matter protests.
- His father had previously lied about their family name being shared by a cricketer from Barbados.