Author: Martin Hoyles
publisher name: Hansib Publishing (Caribbean), Limited
ISBN: 9781906190620
William Cuffay: The Life and Times of a Chartist Leader delves into the compelling story of William Cuffay (1788-1870), a prominent figure in the Chartist movement, which stood as the largest political movement in British history. Born to a grandfather who was an African slave and a father from St Kitts, Cuffay faced the challenges of his heritage and went on to become a key leader in Chartism.
Trained as a tailor, Cuffay moved to London and played a significant role in the tailors' strike for shorter working hours in 1834. Joining the Chartist movement in 1839, he gained recognition for his oratory skills and sense of humor. The book recounts his notable involvement in the final mass demonstration on Kennington Common in 1848 and his subsequent arrest for his participation in a secret revolutionary committee planning an uprising in London.
Despite his significant contributions, Cuffay was convicted and sentenced to transportation for life in Tasmania. The narrative follows his life in Tasmania, where he continued his involvement in politics and was eventually granted a free pardon in 1856. The book aims to restore William Cuffay to his rightful place in history, recognizing him as a key figure in British history during the Chartist years.
