Unknown detail on shirts – linked to slavery

Two of world football’s biggest clubs have been the subject of debate over the origin of their club badges in England.

Both Manchester United and Manchester City have a merchant ship in their logo, which some now point to as a symbol of the slave trade that was banned in 1807 – some 70 years before both clubs were founded.

The Guardian recently wrote about Britain’s previously unknown links to the slave trade, where ships allegedly played a role. Unions are now being asked to reconsider the possibility of delisting.

“Once you see it, you can’t unsee it. It’s on Manchester United’s club badge, hovering above the famous red devil,” writes The Guardian columnist Simon Hattensohn.

According to Ged Grebby, president of the organization Show Racism the Red Card telegram He welcomes the debate on club badges.

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Review: “Absurd and paradoxical”

But their symbols are now protected by many.

Manchester United historian JP O’Neill calls Hattonstone’s reasoning “absurd and paradoxical”.

– Not only did club brands emerge long after slavery was outlawed, but clubs were founded decades after slavery ended, says The Sun.

Manchester United supporter politician Catherine Fletcher says:

– I have always seen ships as a symbol of our industrial trade history. People in Manchester are the most welcoming in the world.

Historian Jonathan Schofield says that the ships were a symbol of free trade.

The clubs themselves have chosen not to comment on the debate or new information.