Episode 1 - First Encounters

Historian David Olusoga explores the enduring relationship between Britain and people whose origins lie in Africa. From the African Romans who guarded Hadrian's Wall in the 3rd century AD, to the black trumpeter of the Tudor courts, David uncovers a history that is as surprising as it is revealing.

Episode 2 - Freedom

In the second part of his four-part series, historian David Olusoga explores the business of slavery and remembers the black sailors who fought for Britain at Trafalgar. He also celebrates a Georgian boxing superstar and the men and women who crossed continents in pursuit of freedom.

Episode 3 - Moral Mission

In part three of this groundbreaking series, historian David Olusoga explores the Victorian moral crusade against slavery. He finds out how Queen Victoria came to have a black god-daughter, why the mill workers of Rochdale stood in solidarity with enslaved Africans in the American South, and remembers the victims of a tragedy in Jamaica.

Episode 4 - The Homecoming