Britain’s first black diplomat: the family behind the history
Discover the untold story of Britain’s first Black diplomat through the eyes of his family in this free upcoming talk by historian Dr Joseph Yannielli.
Join historian Dr Joseph Yannielli for a fascinating look at the life of Reverend Augustus Hanson (1815–1862), Britain’s first Black diplomat, through the eyes of his family. Born in Accra, Hanson became an abolitionist and Underground Railroad conductor before joining the British Foreign Office.
This talk, ‘Subject to continual danger of assassination’: The Public and Private Scandals of Britain’s First Black Diplomat, explores his wife Adeline Cooper Hanson, their children and extended family, using new research from the UK, US, and Ghana. Discover how seeing Hanson’s life from the perspective of his loved ones reshapes the story of this remarkable figure.
Part of the Fulham Palace Black History 365 series, this event shines a light on marginalised voices and re-examines historical narratives.
Book your free place now to uncover the human stories behind history.
About the speaker
Dr Joseph Yannielli is a Lecturer in Modern History at Aston University. He completed his PhD at Yale and has worked with the Gilder Lehrman Center for the Study of Slavery, Resistance, and Abolition. His research focuses on transatlantic abolitionist networks, and he has co-created public history projects that engage communities and students. Joseph Yannielli is also completing a book about the transatlantic Mendi Mission established by abolitionists in the wake of the Amistad rebellion.
Event details:
- This talk is part of the Black History 365 series.
- This talk is suitable for ages 16+.
- Interested in learning more about Reverend Augustus Hanson? Read Joseph Yannielli’s previous blog Augustus Hanson: a Transatlantic detective story.
- For any questions about this event, please contact a member of our team by emailing reception@fulhampalace.org.
- This is an education programme event. Learn more about our terms & conditions.
