Scotland and Slavery

This course will examine the nature and extent of Scottish involvement with slavery in the Atlantic World during the 18th and 19th centuries. You will consider slavery and the transatlantic trade, looking at the broader context among other European nations and global relations of the time.  

The course will use original sources to discuss the plantation regime, abolition and the legacies of slavery, as well as the conflicting humanitarian and economic representations.

Any essential or recommended reading will be shared by the course teacher once the course is confirmed to run.  

You will require access to a device with an internet connection. 

If you have fully engaged with all the learning activities and have attended regularly, by the end of the course, you should be able to:  

• Discuss the nature and extent of Scotland's involvement in the Caribbean;
• Analyze the impact of Scotland's slavery past in a national and international context;
• Assess critically the competing humanitarian and economic narratives relating to the abolition of slavery. 

No previous experience is required.

We welcome all and are committed to fostering a positive culture and sense of community among learners and staff. We expect learners to treat others with dignity and respect. Learners must be aged 16+.  

If you have a disability, learning difficulty, health condition, or personal circumstances which may affect your learning, please let us know so that we can make appropriate adjustments in accordance with the Equality Act 2010.  

Wherever possible, we mainstream adjustments in line with the University’s accessible and inclusive learning policy. 

Learners will have limited access to the University’s student support services who will signpost appropriate local sources of support. 

This course is suitable for those with no prior experience of university study.  

You will need to have reading, listening and communication skills, including the ability to understand detailed ideas and information presented verbally and in writing. You must be comfortable learning in English if it is not your first language. You will need basic digital skills, such as using a computer and navigating a website, to access the learning materials.

Please note that the course booking deadline is 8 days before the course start date.