Today, the University of Bristol academic teaches an evening course called ‘Black History Revisited’.

Held at St Paul’s Learning Centre and the University, it delves into the pre-Windrush Black British experience, unpacks the transatlantic trade in enslaved Africans and explores the lives of the Windrush Generation.

Over 10 weeks, it tells the stories of fascinating figures like former enslaved person Frederick Douglass, who became an abolitionist, diplomat and US presidential nominee.

Students learn to interrogate historical sources and use cultural artefacts like music, literature and film to understand our past and the world today.

They leave with a deeper understanding of debates like reparations for the descendants of enslaved people and why Bristol, the UK and the World are the way they are today.

Dr Burton, a writer, historian and poet, has spent much of his life researching Black history and culture.

The University of Bristol lecturer said: “History for me is about understanding great characters and the forces that shape events. Everyone on this course will learn things that surprise and enlighten them.

“Most of what I learnt about Black history came through informally, through TV shows like Roots, and Black musical culture like reggae and dub poetry. It wasn’t until my PhD that I realised how little I really knew.

“It’s taken a big chunk of my life to make sense of those strands. I realise that for so many of us caught up in our contemporary struggles around race, nation and identity, it’s very hard to get a handle on the backstory to our point in history – this course is the answer to those struggles.”

Paul Deal enrolled on Black History Revisited (then called Ways Into History) after he retired, and went on to do a History master’s degree at the University of Bristol.

Paul said: “I absolutely loved it and really looked forward to each seminar. The course was full of fascinating subjects to delve into and discussion was very much encouraged.

“We all came from a range of backgrounds, ages and educational background and it’s a credit to the University that they are reaching out and encouraging a more diverse student body with this course.

“I personally had 5 O-Levels and no A-Levels but I felt really supported in the course, and indeed during my degree.”

A student on last year’s Black History Revisited course called it “excellent, informative, inspiring and intellectually stimulating”, and said Dr Burton “has a wealth of knowledge and experience which he generously shared”. Another said it was a “must for all residents of Bristol, whatever their heritage”.

The course runs across 10 Tuesday evenings from 14 January and costs £195.

Sign up to the course here before 10am on December 20.