Discovering the First Black Briton and Race in the Roman Era, with Mary Beard | Black and British

Recent questions

• What is the significance of the Beachy Head Woman discovery?

  The discovery of the Beachy Head Woman, a sub-Saharan African living in Roman Britain, sheds light on the diverse population of the Roman Empire. It highlights the more liberal views on race held by the Romans compared to modern times, where skin color did not heavily influence societal standing. This finding offers a lesson on the potential for reducing prejudice over time.

• How did Joe Seaman identify the Beachy Head Woman?

  Archeologist Joe Seaman utilized radio carbon-14 dating and facial reconstruction by a forensic pathologist to identify the remains of the Beachy Head Woman. These scientific methods helped determine her origins and provide insights into her life in Roman Britain.

• What time period did the Beachy Head Woman live in?

  The Beachy Head Woman, a sub-Saharan African, lived in Roman Britain between 125 and 240 AD. Her existence during this time period showcases the diversity and complexity of the Roman Empire.

• Were the Romans accepting of different races?

  While not entirely free of prejudice, the Romans held more liberal views on race compared to modern times. Skin color was not a significant factor in societal standing, indicating a level of acceptance and diversity within the Roman Empire.

• What lesson can be learned from the Beachy Head Woman discovery?

  The discovery of the Beachy Head Woman offers a valuable lesson on the potential for reducing prejudice over time. By showcasing the more liberal views on race held by the Romans, this finding highlights the importance of acceptance and diversity in society.