Edward Long
(1734-1813), Planter and commentator on Jamaican affairsSitter in 1 portrait
Long was born in England but his family had an extensive relationship with Jamaica having owned property there since the early years of the English colony. He was actively involved in the politics of the slave colony serving in the Jamaican Assembly and becoming Speaker in 1768. Due to ill health he returned to England where he wrote his three-volume History of Jamaica, which cemented his reputation as the leading commentator on the Caribbean. In his works, Long promoted the highly influential racist views that regarded Africans as inferior, arguing that slavery instilled order and discipline into their lives.
by William Sharp, after John Opie
line engraving, 1796
NPG D37426
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