Enslaved: The Sunken History of the Transatlantic Slave Trade

Enslaved is a book that explores the transatlantic slave trade through the eyes of an intrepid team of divers who reclaim the stories of their ancestors. The book provides a rich and revealing narrative of the true global and human scope of the trade, which existed for 400 years and trafficked 12 million people. The divers, known as Diving with a Purpose, search for remains and artifacts on sunken slave ships around the world, bringing the stories of lost lives back to the surface. The book also puts the archaeology and history of these wrecks in vivid context, showing how the slave trade touched every nation and society on earth.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 04 January 2024
Publisher: Pegasus Books

A captivating and enlightening journey into the transatlantic slave trade, undertaken by an intrepid team of divers with the noble goal of reclaiming the stories of their ancestors.

"For me, Enslaved is an attempt to give a voice to the millions whose voices were silenced." - Samuel L. Jackson, renowned human rights activist and Hollywood icon.

From the minds behind the acclaimed documentary series Enslaved, comes a profound and illuminating exploration of the transatlantic slave trade's far-reaching global and human impact. Spanning a staggering 400 years, this tragic chapter saw 12 million individuals trafficked, and tragically, 2 million perished during their arduous journey.

Within these pages, we meet the remarkable Diving with a Purpose (DWP) team, as they embark on a mission to uncover the remnants and artifacts left behind by the sunken slave ships scattered across the world's oceans. Their tireless efforts yield a treasure trove of evidence, shedding light on the millions of kidnapped Africans who were forcibly transported to Europe, the Americas, and the Caribbean. From manilla bracelets to shackles, cargo, and other personal belongings, these discoveries bring the stories of lost lives back to the forefront, offering a poignant glimpse into the lives of those who endured unimaginable hardships.

Through meticulous research, Jacobovici and Kingsley vividly contextualize the archaeology and history of these wrecks, spanning from 1670 to 1858. From the bustling ports of Gold Coast Africa to the corporate hubs of trading companies in England, Portugal, and the Netherlands, and finally to the New World destinations, the authors paint a comprehensive picture of how the slave trade touched every nation and society on Earth.

While the scope of Enslaved is indeed global, it also manages to make history deeply personal, as we witness the emotional journey of the divers as they hold tangible pieces of their ancestors' world in their hands. The pain and suffering endured by those on board those ships cannot be forgiven, serving as a stark reminder of the human cost of such a heinous trade.

Enslaved is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the unwavering pursuit of truth and justice. It is a call to action, urging us to confront the dark chapters of our shared history and work towards a more inclusive and equitable world for all. As we reflect on the past, let us be inspired by the resilience and courage of those who survived the transatlantic slave trade and strive to build a future that honors the memory and legacy of those who were silenced.

Weight: 362g
Dimension: 139 x 210 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781639364589