North East England is rarely associated with the African slave trade, but new research has shown that the region was inextricably involved in that shocking state-sanctioned traffic in human beings. “Hidden Chains” reveals the links between some of the North East’s wealthiest, most prominent families and the plantations of the New World. It also tells the story of ordinary people from Northumberland, Durham and Tyneside who were caught up in the slavery business.

Some were bonded labourers; others crossed the Atlantic on ships carrying human cargo, returning with tobacco, sugar, rum and other profitable goods. At the same time the North East’s men and women were playing a determined part in the anti-slavery movement and their vital contribution to abolition is also explored.

John is a member of the NELHS Committee and Editorial Board.