Edward Colston

Edward Colston (2 November 1636 – 11 October 1721) was a Bristol-born English merchant and philanthropist. Much of his wealth, although used often for generous purposes, was acquired through the trade and exploitation of slaves.

Colston and Bristol today

A statue was erected in Bristol in 1895 commemorating Colston. He was widely viewed as an inspirational figure for the city, due to his donations of money to schools and other causes. His name permeates the city in such landmarks as Colston Tower, Colston Hall, Colston Hill, Colston Street and Colston's Collegiate School. He is also remembered, particularly in schools, by Colston's Day, on 13 November.

Related Topics:
1895 - Colston Tower - Colston Hall - Colston Hill - Colston's Collegiate School - 13 November

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Colston is a controversial figure these days in Bristol. In the 1990s, public knowledge of his participation in the slave trade grew. Bristol band Massive Attack refused to play at Colston Hall, and his statue has been repeatedly defaced and vandalised.

Related Topics:
1990 - Massive Attack

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