Intelligence Squared How the Legacy of the British Empire Still Shapes Our World, with Sathnam Sanghera
May 8, 2024
Sathnam Sanghera, a writer and author known for his insights on British identity, teams up with Helen Carr, a historian specializing in medieval history. Together, they dive deep into the lasting impact of the British Empire on modern society. They explore personal experiences of colonial legacies in places like Barbados, the complex relationship of language and culture, and the responsibility of the monarchy regarding imperial history. Their conversation confronts difficult truths while advocating for a more inclusive narrative of the past.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Barbados Vacation
- Sathnam Sanghera's Barbados vacation was meant to be a break from empire.
- However, he found the island steeped in imperial legacy, even concealing its history of enslavement.
Complex Legacies of Abolition
- The British Empire's legacy is complex and contradictory.
- It led to both the abolishment of slavery and increased racism, highlighting its paradoxical nature.
Navigating Empire Conversations
- Conversations about the British Empire are often difficult due to conflicting personal politics.
- Sanghera suggests embracing the idea of opposing truths coexisting, especially regarding empire's impact.
