Olaudah Equiano's Atlantic World

Olaudah Equiano's Atlantic World

From Past Lives by Patrick Wyman

February 25, 2026 · 29 min · Season 1 · Episode 26

About this episode

This episode explores the life of Olaudah Equiano, an influential figure in the history of Atlantic slavery and a notable writer.

Olaudah Equiano is one of the most fascinating people in human history: enslaved as a child in West Africa, trained as a sailor who traveled from the Equator to the Arctic and everywhere in between, but later in life, one of the most impactful writers of his age. Equiano's autobiography is a firsthand guide to the world of Atlantic slavery and what it did to those whom it touched. Become a member now at www.patreon.com/cw/PastLivesMedia. You'll get access to the Past Lives Discord server and four pieces of bonus content per month (including a historian interview, book club, Q and A, and a sources and evidence discussion). Past Lives is a 100-percent independent production, and your support is what allows us to make this show. So, thank you.

People in this episode

Host: Patrick Wyman

Topics covered

  • Olaudah Equiano
  • Atlantic slavery
  • autobiography
  • historical impact
  • West Africa

Keywords

  • Olaudah Equiano
  • Atlantic World
  • slavery
  • autobiography
  • historical figure

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Past Lives Media

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