The Anti-Slavery Movement
In 1786, Wilberforce decided to become involved in the anti-slavery campaign after being asked to join the movement by its leading figures, such as Thomas Clarkson and Granville Sharp. In 1789, after helping the Committee for the Abolition of the Slave Trade successfully raise public awareness about the issue, Wilberforce introduced his first anti-slavery bill to Parliament. This first attempt was not successful, as the bill was outvoted 163 to 88.
A slave ship, 1790, BBC
Wilberforce tried again the next year, but it failed to be passed once more. Then, in 1793, a war began between Great Britain and France. Britain was being threatened of invasion, distracting the country from the anti-slavery campaign. Efforts to abolish the slave trade were deemed as rebellious against the government.
In 1806, the previous feeling of fear began to die down. So, Wilberforce tried a third time but instead of introducing a bill that completely banned the slave trade, Wilberforce suggested that slave trading with French colonies be made illegal. This would hurt British slave traders’ businesses, resulting in the weakening of their power. This bill was passed and successfully ended 75% of the slave trade. |
The Dangers
Working for the anti-slavery movement came with some danger.
Ms. Vanessa Salter, the administrator of Wilberforce's museum said:
"He received death threats from people via the post and Captain Kimber who Wilberforce named in a Parliament speech threatened to sue him. A man also came to his house and threatened him. King George III once refused to receive him which hurt Wilberforce greatly as he was a great supporter of royalty."
Ms. Vanessa Salter, the administrator of Wilberforce's museum said:
"He received death threats from people via the post and Captain Kimber who Wilberforce named in a Parliament speech threatened to sue him. A man also came to his house and threatened him. King George III once refused to receive him which hurt Wilberforce greatly as he was a great supporter of royalty."