African migrants in the early British Empire
I can explain the reasons why the number of African people in England increased from 1500-1700, and describe the different experiences of African migrants in England.
African migrants in the early British Empire
I can explain the reasons why the number of African people in England increased from 1500-1700, and describe the different experiences of African migrants in England.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- England's role in the Transatlantic Slave Trade increased the number of African migrants in England.
- Most African migrants in early modern England lived as ‘unfree’ servants.
- Some historical records show African migrants being baptised and working in various jobs, usually in large port cities.
Keywords
Transatlantic Slave Trade - the trade between Europe, West Africa and the Americas, where goods were exchanged for enslaved people who were sold onto plantations in European colonies
Enslaved person - someone who is forced to work for no pay, and often considered the property of another person
Inheritance - money or property given from one person to another after their death, usually given to their nearest relative
Ambassador - someone sent to represent their nation in another country
Common misconception
All African migrants in the early modern period were 'unfree' servants.
While many African migrants were 'unfree' servants, there were also free men and women who worked in other jobs - for example, John Blanke and Mary Fillis.
To help you plan your year 10 history lesson on: African migrants in the early British Empire, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 10 history lesson on: African migrants in the early British Empire, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
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Explore more key stage 4 history lessons from the Migration: how far was England changed by early modern migration? unit, dive into the full secondary history curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
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- Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
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Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
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Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
One of several German groups from Flanders
One of several German groups from Flanders and some surrounding areas