Unlike Keith Massey (Letters, April 20) I would like to congratulate the Rowntree Society for their research into the Rowntree company’s connections with slavery. It is so important that we understand the more hidden parts of our history.
Back in the 19th century when the Rowntrees started their business I would agree with Mr Massey that there were probably many businesses which benefited from Britain’s colonial empire and the use of slavery - the grocery and confectionery businesses in particular as very little sugar, chocolate and spices could be produced in the UK. In fact not just companies but many individuals owned slaves and were the recipients of compensation when slavery was abolished.
A fascinating resource is the ‘Legacies of British Slave Ownership’ website - ucl.ac.uk/lbs/ - a treasure trove of information about how slavery shaped modern Britain. If you want to see if your ancestors benefited from slavery put in your surname or your grandparents’ names in a search box.
Feeling guilt and shame for what happened in the past may not be useful - but work to understand how the past has shaped the present is exceedingly worthwhile.
Sara Robin, Wentworth Road, York
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