Study: 'First Black Briton' Was Actually White

A new genetic study reveals that the Roman-era woman known as the 'Beachy Head Woman,' who was presented by the BBC as the 'first black Briton,' was actually white and of southern English origin.

According to the findings, she possessed genetic characteristics indicative of a local population in Roman Britain, with data suggesting blonde hair and light-colored eyes. The DNA analysis was conducted by scientists at the Natural History Museum in London.

The case gained significant publicity in 2016 when the BBC series 'Black and British: A Forgotten History' presented the Roman skeleton as originating from sub-Saharan Africa. The assessment of African origin had already been questioned since 2017, and in 2022, the commemorative plaque was removed.

Radiocarbon dating indicated that her death occurred between 129 and 311 AD. Bone analysis estimates that she was approximately 18 to 25 years old when she died and that her height was just over 1.50 meters.

Additionally, nutritional analysis showed that her diet likely included a significant amount of seafood.