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Women Against Slavery: The British Campaigns 1780-1870

Howard Powell

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Women Against Slavery: The British Campaigns, 1780-1870

by Clare Midgley

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3219 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	303 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

The history of the British anti-slavery movement is often told as a story of male leaders and activists. However, women played a vital role in the fight against slavery, both in Britain and in the colonies. This book tells the story of the women who fought against slavery, from the early days of the movement in the late 18th century to the final victory in 1870.

These women came from all walks of life. They were rich and poor, educated and illiterate, black and white. They were united by their common belief that slavery was a crime against humanity, and they worked tirelessly to end it.

Their story is a story of courage, determination, and sacrifice. They faced ridicule, ostracism, and even violence. But they never gave up, and their efforts helped to change the world.

Chapter 1: The Early Years of the Movement

The British anti-slavery movement began in the late 18th century, with the work of people like Granville Sharp and Thomas Clarkson. These men were inspired by the Enlightenment ideals of liberty and equality, and they believed that slavery was a violation of these ideals.

Women were involved in the movement from the very beginning. They organized petitions, wrote letters to newspapers, and spoke out against slavery at public meetings. Some women, such as Elizabeth Heyrick and Mary Wollstonecraft, even wrote books and pamphlets that argued for the abolition of slavery.

The early years of the movement were difficult ones. The slave trade was a powerful industry, and its supporters were determined to keep it going. But the women who fought against slavery were not deterred. They continued to speak out, and they began to make progress.

Chapter 2: The Abolition of the Slave Trade

In 1807, the British Parliament passed the Abolition of the Slave Trade Act. This act made it illegal for British ships to transport slaves. It was a major victory for the anti-slavery movement, and it was largely due to the efforts of women.

Women had played a key role in the campaign for abolition. They had organized petitions, written letters to MPs, and spoken out at public meetings. They had also helped to raise money for the movement, and they had educated the public about the evils of slavery.

The Abolition of the Slave Trade Act was a major step forward, but it did not end slavery in the British Empire. Slavery was still legal in the British colonies, and it would take another 30 years to abolish it.

Chapter 3: The Abolition of Slavery

The campaign to abolish slavery in the British Empire continued throughout the 19th century. Women continued to play a vital role in the movement, and they were instrumental in achieving the final victory in 1870.

In the years leading up to the abolition of slavery, women organized petitions, wrote letters to MPs, and spoke out at public meetings. They also helped to raise money for the movement, and they educated the public about the evils of slavery.

In 1833, the British Parliament passed the Abolition of Slavery Act. This act made it illegal to own slaves in the British Empire. It was a major victory for the anti-slavery movement, and it was largely due to the efforts of women.

The abolition of slavery was a major turning point in British history. It was a victory for justice and humanity, and it was a testament to the power of the women who fought for it.

The women who fought against slavery were pioneers. They were not afraid to speak out against injustice, and they were willing to fight for what they believed in. Their efforts helped to change the world, and they continue to inspire us today.

This book tells the story of these women, and it is a story that deserves to be told. It is a story of courage, determination, and sacrifice. It is a story of hope and victory. It is a story that will inspire you.

Women Against Slavery: The British Campaigns, 1780-1870

by Clare Midgley

5 out of 5