Prince William speaking in Jamaica on March 23, 2022.Photo: Samir Hussein/WireImage
Prince William’s expression of “profound sorrow” over Britain’s historic role in the trans-Atlantic slave trade — while stopping short of an apology — is a “step forward” for the royal family, says historian Robert Lacey.
“It shows the royal family venturing, quite rightly, into areas they previously wouldn’t have,” theBattle of Brothersauthor, who is also the historical consultant toThe Crown, tells PEOPLE aboutWilliam’s landmark speechat the residence of the Governor-General of Jamaica on Wednesday.
“In the past, this would have been considered a political area to get involved in,” continues Lacey. “I am sure the Queen and Philip never mentioned slavery when they went to Jamaica in the past, but it is now a live issue.”
Prince Charles delivers a speech near Barbados' new President Sandra Mason.Shutterstock
According to Lacey, the combination of these joint statements signals a subtle development within the royal family as a younger generation gradually comes to the forefront of palace life.
“It is a landmark. A step forward,” he tells PEOPLE. “The royal family would traditionally skirt around this sort of issue, so it shows the new generation facing up to social issues and being prepared to talk about them and acknowledge fault.
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“Slavery was abhorrent. And it should never have happened,” William, 39, said. “While the pain runs deep, Jamaica continues to forge its future with determination, courage, and fortitude.”
Although slavery was abolished in Britain in the 19th century, widespread immigration from the Caribbean to the U.K. didn’t begin until the arrival of the shipHMT Empire Windrushon June 22, 1948, which carried 492 people across the Atlantic to help rebuild Britain’s shattered post-war economy — many of them children.
Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip in Jamaica in 1953 (left) and Prince William and Kate Middleton in Jamaica on March 24, 2022.PA Images via Getty Images; Jane Barlow/PA Images via Getty Images
“The links between the U.K. and Jamaica are very strong,” he explains. “So, William’s speech has a domestic significance as well as foreign.
“It shows that the new generation are willing to confront difficult issues,” says Lacey, “and to acknowledge mistakes.”
source: people.com
