55. The Fall of the Royal African Company

In this episode of Empire, William and Anita delve into the grim history of the Royal African Company and its central role in the transatlantic slave trade. They discuss the company's transition from gold-seeking to human trafficking, highlighting its impact on the British economy and its evolution into the foremost slave trading entity, surpassing Dutch and French competitors. The discussion covers the mechanics of the triangular trade, the involvement of key figures like the Duke of York and Edward Colston, and the shift from a royal monopoly to a free enterprise system following the Glorious Revolution, which led to a massive increase in the slave trade. They also touch on the complicity of West African rulers, the impact on cities like Liverpool and Manchester, and the surprising lack of voices raised against the practice during that time. The hosts emphasize that they will address Britain's role in the abolition of slavery in later episodes.