Susanna: Unsung Heroine of the 1823 Demerara Slave Rebellion

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Description

The Demerara Slave Rebellion of 1823 might be a footnote in history, but it is nevertheless an integral part of the story of British Guiana (now Guyana). While the rebellion was quashed in short order, it nevertheless struck a death blow to the practice of slavery throughout the British Empire, bringing the trade to an end within ten years of its occurrence. This story invokes passion on both sides of the Atlantic, and creates racial divides between colonists and colonised peoples, whenever it is told. Names such as William Wilberforce and Reverend John Smith are put forward by the white colonists, while the colonised submit names like the slave Quamina for recognition. In this work of fiction, the author brings a young girl into the drama, and credits her with lighting the fire for the rebellion. Her name is Susanna.