Did Queen Elizabeth I Start the Atlantic Slave Trade?

The assertion that Queen Elizabeth I started the Atlantic slave trade is a misconception fueled by historical misunderstanding. Let's delve into the true origins and historical context to clarify this issue.

Historical Background and Misconceptions

One of the most common misconceptions is that Queen Elizabeth I was responsible for initiating the Atlantic slave trade. In reality, the early history of the transatlantic slave trade involved several European powers long before Elizabeth's reign. The Portuguese started the trade in the early 16th century, with the first recorded slave shipment in 1505. By the time Elizabeth ascended to the throne in 1558, the slave trade was already well-established.

The Role of Portugal and Spain

Portugal and Spain were the pioneers of the transatlantic slave trade, with the Spanish establishing a significant presence in the Caribbean by the early 16th century. The Portuguese, too, had a long history of slave trading. This trade expanded rapidly from the mid-15th century, with large numbers of African slaves being transported to the Canary Islands and other colonial territories.

Interventions and Roles of English Monarchs

Even though Queen Elizabeth I did not initiate the transatlantic slave trade, the participation of the British in the trade began during her reign. Charles II, not Elizabeth, played a more direct role. Charles II authorized the Royal African Company in 1672, which was granted a monopoly on transatlantic trade. The company's ventures were heavily focused on slave trading.

Charles II also supported the Barbados Slave Code in 1661, which regulated the treatment of slaves in the British colonies. Moreover, one of the king's brothers, the Duke of York, had a notorious practice of branding slaves with “DOY,” further demonstrating the human rights abuses that accompanied British participation in the slave trade.

Queen Elizabeth I and Her Legacy

While Queen Elizabeth I did not start the transatlantic slave trade, her reign saw the early stages of British involvement. John Hawkins, often regarded as the pioneer of English slave trading, began his voyages in the late 16th century, with or without the queen’s knowledge. Despite the lack of her direct involvement, Elizabeth still supported the expansion of the trade by chartering ships to Hawkins and granting him a coat of arms that included an image of a bound African captive.

Conclusion

The transatlantic slave trade was a complex phenomenon with deep historical roots. While Queen Elizabeth I did not initiate the trade, British involvement in the slave trade began during her reign. Her support for the trade, as demonstrated through the actions of her court and the granting of monopolies on trade, contributed to the expansion of British participation in the slave trade. Understanding these historical intricacies is crucial for a more informed and nuanced view of the past.