Honouring Black Service Men and Women in the World Wars

A Tribute to Their Stories

The contributions of Black service men and women during the World Wars are often overlooked. This Remembrance Month, it is essential to recognise their bravery and sacrifices. The following resources shed light on their experiences, helping to enrich our understanding of history.

Books

As Good as Any Man: Scotland’s Black Tommy

Authors: Morag Miller, Roy Laycock, John Sadler & Rosie Serdiville

This book offers a fascinating account of Arthur Roberts, a Black soldier from Scotland. He served on the Western Front during the First World War. The narrative draws on his diaries and letters, bringing his story to life.

Black Tommies: British Soldiers of African Descent in the First World War (Kids Edition)

Author: Stephen Bourne

This accessible edition is perfect for younger readers. It explores the lives of Black soldiers who served Britain in WWI. The book highlights their challenges and bravery on the battlefield.

The West Indian Soldier: A Brief History of the British Army and the Caribbean

This concise history focuses on Caribbean soldiers in the British Army. It highlights their service and the struggles they faced during both the First and Second World Wars.

Black Poppies: Britain’s Black Community and the Great War

Author: Stephen Bourne

This book examines the lives and contributions of Britain’s Black communities during WWI. It includes stories of servicemen, women, and civilians, shedding light on often overlooked narratives.

Memoirs of a Black Englishman

Authors: Paul Stephenson and Lilleith Morrison

This personal memoir captures the experiences of a Black Briton navigating life in Britain. It reflects on service, society, and resilience.

Film & Streaming

Hero: The Extraordinary Life of Mr Ulric Cross

Available on: BBC iPlayer

This movie tells the inspiring story of Caribbean war hero Ulric Cross. His extraordinary life included both military service and significant contributions to civil society.

Blitz (2024)

Available on: Apple TV

This dramatised depiction showcases life on the Home Front during the Second World War. It highlights the bravery and resilience of those who kept Britain safe.

Churchill: Britain’s Secret Apartheid

Available on: Channel 4

This documentary explores the racial inequalities faced by Black and colonial troops during both world wars. It provides broader context regarding Britain’s imperial history.

Britain’s Secret War Babies

Available on: Channel 4

This moving exploration focuses on the children born to Black servicemen and British women during WWII. It addresses the challenges they faced in post-war Britain.

The Six Triple Eight

Available on: Netflix

This film tells the story of the all-Black 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion in WWII. It highlights the vital, yet often unrecognised, contributions of Black service personnel.

Conclusion

These books and films serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by Black service men and women. Their stories deserve to be told and remembered. By engaging with these resources, we can honour their legacy and ensure their contributions are not forgotten.

You can purchase any of the books listed in our *IBHM Heritage shop, which helps support the IBHM-UK website and independent bookshops

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