Mary Seacole was voted 'Greatest Black Briton' in a 2004 poll.
On 1 October 2004, Mary Seacole was named the "Greatest Black Briton" in a significant poll organized by the Black Heritage website. This honor was a testament to Seacole’s enduring influence in British history and culture, highlighting the significant, though often overlooked, contributions of Black Britons throughout history. The poll spurred renewed interest in her life story and brought more comprehensively into public consciousness her achievements and impact on race and gender barriers that she broke during the 19th century. Celebrated for her compassionate care during the Crimean War and her literary contributions, Seacole’s recognition in this poll symbolized a turning point in acknowledging the historical importance and legacy of minority figures in Britain.