Empire

56. Tacky's Revolt: Causes of the Rebellion

Jun 13, 2023

Vincent Brown, a Harvard historian and author of 'Tacky's Revolt,' delves into the grim realities of slavery and the significant uprising it sparked. He shares personal narratives that highlight the horrific conditions endured by enslaved people in Jamaica. The discussion uncovers the brutal tactics of slaveholders like Thomas Thistlewood and the complex interplay between empathy and analysis in recounting these tales. Brown also examines the economic motivations behind slavery in the Caribbean, revealing the interconnections with global conflicts and resistance movements.

49:49

Episode guests

Vincent Brown

Highlights

AI Chapters

Episode notes

The Gold Coast and the War of Dohomi

01:35

Disorientation and Remaking of Self in the Slave Trade

01:53

The World Churning After the Seven Years' War

01:25

Ghastly Man and Smooth Skin: A Podcast Break

01:23

Intro

2min

Echoes of Resistance: Tacky's Revolt and Historical Trauma

18min

Uncovering Apongo: The Story of Enslavement and Resistance

9min

Profitability of Slavery in the Caribbean

6min

The Cruel Legacy of Thomas Thistlewood

4min

Brutality and Resistance in Caribbean Slavery

8min

What was life like for enslaved people on the plantations? How did white people treat their slaves? What economic model did plantation owners operate on? William and Anita are joined this week Vincent Brown, Professor at Harvard and co-founder of Timestamp Media, to discuss Tacky's Revolt and in this episode they focus upon the horrific circumstances that slaves had to endure.

**TRIGGER WARNING: this episode contains graphic descriptions of the brutal treatment of slaves, do not listen with children.

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Twitter: @Empirepoduk

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Producer: Callum Hill

Exec Producer: Jack Davenport + Neil Fearn

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