Staff Reports
In a world where historical narratives are often twisted to fit modern ideologies, it is refreshing to take a moment and set the record straight. Amazingly, by the year 1800, slavery was a global institution, accepted and practiced worldwide without question. Yet, by the end of the 19th century, this dark practice had been abolished in many significant countries, primarily those under European influence. What is rarely acknowledged, however, is that it was largely due to the actions of white men in these Western societies that the abolition of slavery was achieved—remarkable and highly inconvenient truths for those who love to demonize the West.
Take the Royal Navy’s West Africa Squadron, a force that patrolled the seas with determination and compassion, intercepting slave ships and freeing tens of thousands of African slaves. The British taxpayer funded this mission, a noble and expensive operation, highlighting a commitment to human rights. Yet, this massive effort is curiously overlooked or downplayed, a narrative conveniently ignored in favor of emphasizing Western guilt.
Across the Atlantic, hundreds of thousands of Union soldiers laid down their lives in the American Civil War, a conflict in which slavery was a central issue. These men, predominantly white, fought not for their own liberty but for the liberation of others. And it was the white Congress and legislatures that ratified the 13th Amendment, effectively ending slavery in the United States. But rather than being hailed as heroes, these historical figures are often painted with the tarnish of oppression rather than credited for their monumental contributions to freedom.
The modern discourse around slavery tends to cast an unending shadow over Western nations, painting them as uniquely culpable. Yet, if we follow through on the logic that the legacy of slavery demands perpetual racial redistribution, then no society is exempt. Every ethnic group at some point in history participated in or was a victim of slavery. This points to a much more nuanced tapestry of human history, where blame and credit alike should be accurately and fairly allocated.
Let us then shift the focus from guilt-tripping and credit where it’s due. Acknowledge the undeniable role played by Western figures in the abolition of a global evil, instead of perpetuating divisive narratives that suggest endless reparation. Recognize the progress and sacrifices made towards freedom. Society thrives on honesty and balance, not perpetual apology for our ancestors’ actions. It is time the pendulum of historical narrative swings towards fairness and truth.
