Abolitionist Movement

Abstract

Abstract British antislavery movement of the 18th and 19th centuries. The evangelical revival that resulted from John Wesley's religious activities in 18th century England created a groundswell of religious devotion in a country where indifference had been the stamp of religious life. With this development came a sharp ethical view of life and society, and the crusade for reforms in factories, prisons, and other public institutions. One of the most popular of these groups from the 18th century was the Abolitionist movement. Their roots can be found in the Pennsylvanian Quaker Anthony Benezet who, by his writings, influenced John Wesley and converted notable members of the movement to abolitionism. With their base in Clapham the Abolitionists were mainly Anglican lay people of upper and middle class.