The Making of the Black Working Class in Britain

A classic history of the role of Black working-class struggles throughout the twentieth century

In this pioneering history, Ron Ramdin traces the roots of Britain’s disadvantaged black working class. From the development of a small black presence in the sixteenth century, through the colonial labour institutions of slavery, indentureship, and trade unionism, Ramdin expertly guides us through the stages of creation for a UK minority whose origins are often overlooked. He examines the emergence of a black radical ideology underpinning twentieth-century struggles against unemployment, racial attacks and workplace inequality, and delves into the murky realms of employer and trade union racism. First published in 1987, this revised edition includes a new introduction reflecting on events over the past four decades.

“This is a pioneering and valuable work of scholarship and interpretation.”
—New Society

“Well-written and presented with admirable clarity … scrupulously documented and written with dynamic flair … with almost every turn of the page the book breaks new ground.”
—Caryl Phillips, City Limits

“A major work of research that is certain to be thumbed through by scholars in the future.”
—West Indian News

“An important and timely contribution to British historiography.”
—Caribbean Times

“Ramdin’s contribution is unique.”
—Times Higher Education SupplementRon Ramdin is a historian, biographer and novelist. His previous books include Paul Robeson: The Man and His Mission, The Other Middle Passage and From Chattel-slave to Wage-earner: History of Trade Unionism in Trinidad and Tobago.