The countryside is almost sacred to many Britons. There is a depth of feeling about rural places, the moors and lochs, valleys and mountains, cottages and country houses. Yet the British countryside, so integral to our national identity, is rarely seen as having anything to do with British colonialism. This talk brings rural life and colonial rule together with transformative results.
Empire transformed rural lives: whether in Welsh sheep farms or Cornish copper mines, it offered both opportunity and exploitation. This talk will demonstrate how the booming profits of overseas colonial activities directly contributed to enclosure, land clearances and dispossession. These histories, usually considered separately, continue to link people's lives across continents.
To give an honest account, to offer both affection and criticism, is a matter of respect: we should not knowingly tell half a history. This new knowledge of our island stories, once gained, can only deepen Britons' relationship with the nation's beautiful landscapes.
Special Offer: Mix and match 4 in-person tickets across our entire talks programme and get the 5th on free. (This is not a loyalty programme - all tickets must be purchased in one transaction.)
In-person tickets are available above. To book Zoom tickets, click here: Online Tickets
PLEASE NOTE: Due to the nature of our historic buildings the acoustics can sometimes be challenging. Whilst we are constantly working to improve this, we recommend joining us online if you want to be sure of crisp, clear audio.
Speaker: Professor Corinne Fowler
