The Critical Years: Role of the Events of the 1780s in Strengthening the Abolitionist Movement of Britain

Abstract

Much of the success that the British abolitionist movement had over the course of the late 18th century and early 19th century was a result of a transformation that took place in the abolitionist movement during the 1780s. As the decade progressed, the abolitionist cause became a powerful force and organization as a result of the rise in powerful and charismatic individuals, that provided a voice and guidance for the cause; the Quaker’s involvement in laying down the foundation for a unified abolitionist movement; and finally, the refinement of pro-abolitionist arguments that were used to counteract anti-abolitionist tracts. Though the British slave trade was not abolished until 1807, with slavery being outright abolished in the Empire in 1833, the 1780s saw abolitionist sentiments spread across the British Isles and British citizens becoming actively involved in the cause to free the slaves. By the end of the decade the debate over slavery had become a flash point in British politics that led to heated debates in Parliament as to what course of action should be taken. Though the end of the decade did not see slavery abolished it did lay the foundation for the eventual abolition of slavery in Britain and the Empire.