Join Paul as he provides expert guidance on tracing Black ancestry further back to the early 1800s, to enslaved ancestors. With his pioneering research and invaluable insights, attendees can gain a deeper understanding of their cultural heritage and family history.
Paul will share his personal journey of overcoming major barriers to tracing his ancestors who lived prior to the abolition of the British system of slavery, along with records specific to Black ancestry and other materials of general interest to those embarking on their own journeys to find their roots.
This talk is suitable for those new to exploring family history, those with some experience but seeking other sources of information, or those looking to deepen their knowledge of Black History.
About the speaker
Trailblazing family historian Paul Crooks pioneered research into Black genealogy during the 1990s. He traced his family history from London, back 6 generations, to ancestors enslaved on a sugar plantation in North America.
Paul was told that it would be impossible to trace records of slave-ownership let alone his Ancestors enslaved on plantations in North America. “No one had tried because such records did not exist.” Undeterred, he embarked on a journey of discovery that led from suburban North London to North America and ultimately back to the Gold Coast.
His books, Ancestors and A Tree Without Roots – The Guide To Tracing British, African and Asian Caribbean Ancestry brought him international recognition for his breakthrough research into Black genealogy.
Paul is credited with inspiring an upsurge in interest in Black and British ancestry. He is also recognised for having spawned an industry in African Caribbean genealogy.
Be sure to follow Black History Speaker Paul Crooks on Eventbrite!
Ancestry Talks with Paul Crooks website
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