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The Slavery Business
Actors portray a slavery inspection by William of Somerley
The Slavery Business
This new series from BBC TWO takes a fresh look at the slave trade - from the human cost to its modern legacy.
But what were the consequences of treating people as chattels? The answer is more complicated than just riches and misery. And how do surnames offer echos of the trade? Find out in bloodlines.

The unsustainable industry

William of Somerly with slaves
Once the engine of global trade, the rejection of slavery was a long process. William Hardy guides us through slavery's rise and fall.

The slow abolition

William Wilberforce
An act of Parliament was merely the first step in the journey from slavery to freedom.

A modern-day problem

Copyright Anti-Slavery International
You might feel the battle against slavery was won long before you were  born - but slavery's influence is strong, even in our times.
 

Continue the debate

Slave-driver's whip
Got an opinion or a question about slavery? Why not share it in our history forum?

Take charge of your future

Students in a library
If you'd like to explore the influence of the past on our lives today, try the Open University's wide range of courses.
 

On bbc.co.uk/history

Slave trader and slave
There's more fascinating insights into slavery on bbc.co.uk/history - including a timetable of abolition.

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The cover of Ozone

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