Wilberforce, William (1759–1833)

Abstract

William Wilberforce provided the anti‐slavery movement with a dynamic and charismatic political force that effected change in both houses of parliament. He was born in Hull of a prosperous merchant family but decided early that he did not wish to go into trade. An indifferent student, Wilberforce discovered an interest in politics very early and became a member of parliament for Hull in the House of Commons at the age of 21. Only four years later he was elected as representative for Yorkshire, England's largest county. Even in his early political career he exhibited a zeal for reform, and he learned much about dealing with parliamentary politics. He made important political contacts, including William Pitt the younger, who became prime minister in 1783. Pitt later encouraged Wilberforce to champion the cause of abolishing the slave trade. In 1785, Wilberforce underwent a profound conversion experience and embraced evangelical Christianity. Pitt and evangelical minister John Newton, however, counseled him against giving up his political career for church life, and his religious zeal translated into a strong desire to make a positive contribution to society, which he perceived as sliding toward moral bankruptcy.