Jamaican Ancestry | The Truth about Your Family Name

Black history educators often assume that Black family surnames are a legacy of slave ownership. Some Black and mixed-Black descendants reject their so-called ‘slave name,’ while for others, it may represent their only link to a history that has been deliberately erased.

In this masterclass, African Caribbean genealogist Paul Crooks will reveal fresh insights into names and naming practices within North American enslaved societies.

Drawing from historical documents uncovered during his search for his ancestors—captured off the Gold Coast and enslaved in Jamaica—Paul will shed light on name-giving practices within enslaved societies during and after enslavement, as well as the tradition of African diasporan nicknaming.

Paul's research challenges disempowering narratives about Black people in North America, offering more empowering perspectives on historical events.

This talk will uncover evidence of resistance to the imposition of slave names and the widespread use of African names prior to emancipation.

Plus Ticket: Along with event access, Plus Ticket holders will receive a digital copy of the 'Africans, Irish, and the Music of the Caribbean' eBook, delivered via email after the-event.

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Premium Ticket: Premium access includes all Plus offerings, plus a digital copy of Paul Crooks' latest novel 'Descendants,' sent to you electronically after the event.

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Deluxe Ticket: Deluxe attendees enjoy all Premium benefits, with the added bonus of the 'DNA Testing Demystified: Separating Fact from Fiction in Genealogy' eBook to deepen your understanding of genealogy sent to you electronically after the event.

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About the speaker

Trailblazing family historian Paul Crooks pioneered research into Black genealogy during the 1990s. He traced his family history from London, back 6 generations, to ancestors enslaved on a sugar plantation in North America.

Paul was told that it would be impossible to trace records of slave-ownership let alone his Ancestors enslaved on plantations in North America. “No one had tried because such records did not exist.” Undeterred, he embarked on a journey of discovery that led from suburban North London to North America and ultimately back to the Gold Coast.

His books, Ancestors and A Tree Without Roots - The Guide To Tracing British, African and Asian Caribbean Ancestry brought him international recognition for his breakthrough research into Black genealogy.

Paul is credited with inspiring an upsurge in interest in Black and British ancestry. He is also recognised for having spawned an industry in African Caribbean genealogy.

Be sure to follow Black History Speaker Paul Crooks on Eventbrite!

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Host or Publisher ANCESTRY TALKS WITH PAUL CROOKS