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The Trial of Joseph Knight

In the late 18th century, plantation owner Sir John Wedderburn returns to Scotland from the West Indies, bringing with him an African slave, Joseph Knight. By May Sumbwanyambe.

May Sumbwanyambe's play is based on real historical events. In the late 18th century much of Scotland's mercantile wealth is built on slavery. Plantation owner, Sir John Wedderburn, returns to Perthshire from the West Indies, bringing with him an African slave, Joseph Knight. Wedderburn educates Knight and makes him a domestic servant. But when Knight runs away his escape and recapture help to pave the way for the abolition of slavery in Britain.

Producer/director: Bruce Young
BBC Scotland.

44 minutes

Last on

Wed 8 Jul 202014:15

Credits

RoleContributor
Joseph KnightNana Amoo-Gottfried
Sir John WedderburnRon Donachie
Annie ThomsonAnita Vettesse
Margaret WedderburnHelen Mackay
Sheriff SwintonJohn Buick
DirectorBruce Young
ProducerBruce Young
WriterMay Sumbwanyambe

Broadcasts

  • Thu 12 Jul 201814:15
  • Wed 8 Jul 202014:15

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