Early Atlantic Age

The Early Atlantic Age (1250-1609): Why and how did we get here?

Dr. Clarence Maxwell | March 12, 2020

The first in the series will begin Bermuda’s story in 1250, with the construction of the Atlantic System that led to the Island’s discovery, the arrival of the first man of African descent, Venturilla, and the Sea Venture wreck. Bermudian historian Dr. Clarence Maxwell will explore the historical context that put Bermuda on the map.

Building Community

Building a Maritime Community & Maritime State: Early Settlement and Economic Growth (1609-1800)

Dr. Clarence Maxwell | July 23, 2020

Using an inquiry-based lecture, Dr. Clarence Maxwell contextualises and examines the evolution of Bermuda as a maritime state and a maritime community. By referencing contemporary research, Dr. Maxwell discusses how Bermuda forged its place in the Atlantic World based on relationships and necessary adaptations, both of which were acts of agency that cast shadows to today.

Download our free syllabus which has additional reading material and video resources to allow a deeper dive into the content. Developed by members of the NMB Education Committee and Staff, the syllabus includes a number of questions to consider before, during, and after the lecture, offering an opportunity for participants to critically analyse history through their own personal lens.

Pushing Boundaries

Pushing the Boundaries of Freedom

Dr. Kristy Warren | November 18, 2020

How did free people of colour and enslaved individuals in Bermuda navigate local and international power structures in their fight for freedom?

In this third lecture of the series, Dr. Kristy Warren will explore the myriad ways in which enslaved and formerly enslaved people in Bermuda resisted their enslavement, asserted their humanity, and pushed the boundaries of freedom before and after emancipation.

Download our free syllabus which has additional reading material and video resources to allow a deeper dive into the content. Developed by members of the NMB Education Committee and Staff, the syllabus includes a number of questions to consider before, during, and after the lecture, offering an opportunity for participants to critically analyse history through their own personal lens.

MODULE 3 Pres cover (1146 × 877 px)

Reckoning with the slave ship Enterprise in Bermuda, 1835

Dr. Neil Kennedy | April 28, 2022 5:30PM (Atlantic Time)

FREE Virtual Lecture via Zoom

In 1835, seven months after Emancipation, the American slave ship Enterprise, carrying 78 enslaved adults and children, was forced into Bermuda by bad weather. The unintended arrival of the ship and the choice for freedom made by those onboard, touched off an urgent discussion about the legal status of its human cargo.

From the role that local Black Bermudian communication networks played in securing the freedom of those on board to the connections between the Enterprise and some of the most prominent slave traders and abolitionist families in the United States, this talk by Dr. Neil Kennedy will explore how new research can help us understand this pivotal moment in our history.

DOWNLOAD SYLLABUS
MODULE 3 Pres cover (1146 × 877 px)

Societal Changes in Post-Emancipation Bermuda and the “Friendly Society” Effects 

Dr. Michael Bradshaw | July 21, 2022 5:30PM (Atlantic Time)

FREE Virtual Lecture via Zoom

Established as early as 1832, friendly societies were vital for the empowerment of Black Bermudians in post-emancipation Bermuda, providing education and financial support to the most vulnerable members of our society. This lecture will explore the role and practices of friendly societies in the New World and how the presence and participation of the Bermuda friendly society system is linked to the familiar adage “Bermuda is another world’. Join us as Dr. Michael Bradshaw examines who these friendly societies were and their impact on Bermuda.

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