Staying Power: The History of Black People in Britain

Staying Power is a comprehensive history of black Britons, spanning from the Roman conquest to the abolitionist Olaudah Equiano, revealing how Africans, Asians, and their descendants have been erased from British history. This new edition includes an introduction by Paul Gilroy and a foreword by Gary Younge, examining the book's continued significance in the face of Brexit and right-wing nationalism.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 656 pages
Publication date: 20 September 2018
Publisher: Pluto Press

Staying Power is a sweeping chronicle of black Britons that traces its roots back to the Roman conquest, encompasses the court of Henry VIII, and follows a diverse range of characters, from Mary Seacole to the abolitionist Olaudah Equiano. In this captivating work, Peter Fryer paints a vivid portrait of two thousand years of Black presence in Britain.

Originally published in the 1980s, at a time of racial tensions and police brutality, Fryer's history served as a powerful political intervention. It exposed the long-standing erasure of Africans, Asians, and their descendants from British history. By reintegrating black Britons into the broader narrative of British history, Fryer demonstrated how they had influenced political traditions, social institutions, and cultural life. This counter-narrative was not only effective in challenging racist and nationalist ideologies but also played a crucial role in shaping a more inclusive and diverse understanding of British society.

This new edition of Staying Power includes the original introduction by Paul Gilroy, renowned author of There Ain't No Black in the Union Jack. Additionally, a fresh foreword by Guardian journalist Gary Younge examines the enduring significance of the book in the present day, particularly in the context of Brexit and the resurgence of right-wing nationalism.

Through its comprehensive and nuanced exploration, Staying Power offers a profound appreciation of the rich tapestry of black history in Britain. It serves as a reminder of the contributions and struggles of Black individuals and communities throughout history and their ongoing presence and influence in shaping the nation's identity. This book is a valuable resource for scholars, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the complex and multifaceted history of Britain and its relationship with race.

Weight: 644g
Dimension: 216 x 178 x 47 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780745338309
Edition number: 3 ed