Interpretations of Abolition
History: KS3, topic 9.1.9
Interpretations of the Abolition Movement
Several factors contributed to the Abolition Movement.
Financial gain
- Some argue that the motive for actions in the slave trade was money.
- The slave trade began because it brought economic gains to Britain. It gave British people cheaper goods and it gave British companies an opportunity to make profit.
- It can also be argued that the abolition of slavery also brought economic gains to Britain.
Wilberforce
- Wilberforce, Equiano, and the Abolition movement are often considered one of the most important reasons for the abolition of slavery.
- They pressured Parliament and brought about legal change.
Role of slaves
- Many people focus on the role of Wilberforce and other British abolitionists. But we should not forget the role of the slaves themselves.
- Slave rebellions were important.
- These rebellions showed people that slaves were humans and not animals.
- Freed slaves, such as Olaudah Equiano, campaigned for the end of slavery.
- Toussaint L'Ouverture led a successful rebellion in Haiti to overcome slave owners.
Test yourself on Interpretations of Abolition
Who was NOT a key campaigner for the end of slavery?