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Abolition Movement

Definition

The abolition movement refers to the social and political campaign that aimed to end the institution of slavery, particularly in the British Empire, during the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries. It involved various individuals and organizations advocating for the immediate or gradual emancipation of enslaved people.

Analogy

Imagine a group of people working together to break down a giant wall that separates two communities. The abolition movement was like this group, united in their efforts to dismantle the system of slavery and bring equality and freedom to all individuals.

Related terms

Slave Trade Act: This act passed by the British Parliament in 1807 prohibited the trading of enslaved Africans throughout the British Empire.

William Wilberforce: A prominent leader in the abolition movement who was instrumental in achieving its success through his advocacy efforts in Parliament.

Emancipation Act: Also known as the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833, this legislation abolished slavery throughout most parts of the British Empire.