Black genealogy and African-Caribbean history often require approaches that go beyond standard family history methods. This site brings together research, writing, and public education focused on understanding Black family histories through evidence-led archival work.
Paul Crooks is a genealogist, author, and historian whose work centres on tracing ancestry shaped by enslavement, migration, and record systems that were not designed to preserve personal identity. Drawing on British, Caribbean, and transatlantic records, his research examines how family histories can be reconstructed responsibly despite gaps, inconsistencies, and distortion in the archive.
Here you’ll find an overview of Paul’s work, including background on his research and expertise, guidance for individuals researching their own ancestry, published books, and current talks and events. The site is designed to help visitors understand what is possible, what evidence exists, and where to begin.
This work is grounded in long-term research into Black genealogy and African-Caribbean history, drawing on British, Caribbean, and transatlantic archives. It reflects sustained engagement with historical records connected to enslavement, migration, and identity, and a commitment to evidence-led interpretation rather than inherited narrative.
The material presented here is informed by published research, practical casework, and public education, and is intended for people who want a clear, accurate understanding of how Black family histories can be researched responsibly.
About & Expertise
Background on Paul Crooks’ research, publications, and approach to Black genealogy and African-Caribbean history, including how archival evidence is interpreted responsibly.
→ About the work and expertise
Ancestry Consultation
Individual guidance for people researching Black ancestry, focused on understanding what records exist, how they can be used, and where the limits of evidence lie.
→ Ancestry consultation
Books & Publications
Published research and case studies exploring Black genealogy and African-Caribbean history through specific records, historical contexts, and documented family histories.
→ Books and publications
Talks & Events
Public talks and educational events examining historical records, research methods, and case studies related to Black genealogy and African-Caribbean history.
→ Talks and events
This site is intended for people who want a clear, evidence-led understanding of Black genealogy and African-Caribbean history. It is particularly relevant for those researching family histories shaped by enslavement, migration, and archival systems that recorded people unevenly or incompletely.
The material here does not offer quick answers or guaranteed results. Instead, it focuses on explaining what records exist, how they can be interpreted responsibly, and where uncertainty remains. The emphasis throughout is on accuracy, context, and transparency rather than simplified conclusions.
If you are exploring Black genealogy or African-Caribbean history, the pages on this site are designed to be read selectively rather than all at once. Background on the research and expertise behind the work sits alongside practical guidance, published studies, and current educational activity.
If you are exploring Black genealogy or African-Caribbean history, the pages on this site are designed to be read selectively rather than all at once. Background on the research and expertise behind the work sits alongside practical guidance, published studies, and current educational activity.
Visitors are encouraged to begin with the area most relevant to their interests — whether learning more about the research itself, seeking individual guidance, reading published work, or exploring talks and events — and to move between sections as their understanding develops.