When I first embarked on my month-long study abroad journey to London, I had no idea just how deep and complex the city’s history was—particularly in the realms of empire, war, trade, and race. As part of my public health program, I expected to learn about healthcare systems and policies, but what I encountered was an eye-opening exploration into the dark undercurrents of London’s history and how they have shaped the city’s present-day public health challenges.
The Dark Empire: Unveiling History’s Impact on Public Health
From the very first day, our program director introduced us to the concept of the “Dark Empire”—a term used to describe the often-overlooked aspects of Britain’s imperial past. This wasn’t just about learning dates and events; it was about understanding the profound and often painful legacies of the British Empire, particularly in relation to public health. We delved into how Britain’s colonial endeavors were deeply intertwined with public health—both positively and negatively. On one hand, the empire’s expansion brought about medical advancements and the establishment of healthcare systems in various colonies. On the other, it also introduced devastating diseases, disrupted local health practices, and created inequalities that persist to this day. The effects of these actions are still visible in the health disparities seen in the UK and former colonies.
War, Trade, and Race: The Interconnected Web
As we explored London, visiting museums and historical sites, it became clear how war, trade, and race are inextricably linked to public health. The Imperial War Museum was particularly impactful. Walking through its halls, we saw how conflicts—ranging from the World Wars to more recent conflicts—had profound effects on public health, both during and after the wars. The spread of diseases in war-torn areas, the psychological toll on soldiers and civilians, and the long-term impacts on healthcare systems were all themes we explored.
Trade, too, played a significant role in shaping public health. The bustling docks of the Thames River, which once facilitated the global trade of goods, also became conduits for the spread of diseases like cholera. Our visit to the Museum of London Docklands shed light on the darker side of trade, particularly the transatlantic slave trade. Here, we reflected on how the exploitation of people for economic gain has had lasting impacts on the health and well-being of descendants, as well as on societies at large.
Race, a theme intertwined with empire and trade, was a constant thread in our studies. The British Empire’s racial hierarchies and the legacy of these beliefs continue to influence public health in terms of access to care, health outcomes, and the social determinants of health. Visiting the Black Cultural Archives in Brixton was a powerful experience, reminding us that public health is not just about medicine but also about justice and equity.
Museums, Sites, and a City of Contrasts
One of the most enriching aspects of this program was the opportunity to see these historical connections in person. London is a city of contrasts—where the grandeur of imperial buildings stands alongside memorials to the suffering caused by those same imperial ambitions. Our visits weren’t just academic exercises; they were moments of reflection and realization. Standing at the Tower of London, for instance, it was hard not to think about the countless lives affected by the power struggles that played out within its walls, and how those struggles shaped the social and health systems we see today.
A Transformative Experience
Studying abroad in London has been more than just an educational experience; it has been a journey of transformation. I’ve learned that public health is a field deeply rooted in history, shaped by forces of empire, war, trade, and race. This program has broadened my perspective, allowing me to see the interconnectedness of global histories and their impact on health. I would encourage anyone interested in public health to consider a study abroad program like this. It’s not just about learning facts and figures; it’s about understanding the human stories behind the data, recognizing the complexities of the world we live in, and developing a deeper sense of empathy and responsibility as future public health professionals.
