Re-formation in Action: Liberty in a Wesleyan Spirit and Praxis—The Tolpuddle Martyrs, Part I

Abstract

ABSTRACT This article (in two parts) focuses on Methodist agricultural labourers who founded one of the first British trade unions in 1833. Six of them—including three Methodist local preachers—were convicted of taking an unlawful oath on joining the union. In consequence, they were sentenced to seven years' transportation to Australia. The public outcry was immediate, and this led to a full pardon being granted to them three years later. The Wesleyan Methodist leadership was silent and the story has received minimal attention from Methodist historians. These men demonstrated a deep scriptural faithfulness, and their understanding of God's liberating grace motivated their actions.