Question

historical background
what was william wilberforces role in the english abolitionist movement?
william wilberforce (1759 - 1833) was a prominent politician and social reformer whose tireless efforts to end slavery culminated in the slavery abolition act of 1833, which abolished slavery throughout the british empire. his reforming zeal was shaped by his deep personal commitment to christian teaching and his dissatisfaction with the state of great britain in the industrial era. he supported public education, the creation of a free colony in sierra leone, missionary societies, and helped found the society for the prevention of cruelty to animals.
according to this excerpt, what roles did william wilberforce fulfill during his lifetime?
according to this excerpt, what was the root cause of the use of slavery in the british empire?
who was william wilberforce?
william wilberforce was born on 24 august 1759 in hull, the son of a wealthy merchant. he studied at cambridge university where he began a lasting friendship with the future prime - minister, william pitt the younger. in 1780, wilberforce became a member of parliament for hull, later representing yorkshire. his character underwent a complete change when he became an evangelical christian, and in 1790 joined a leading group known as the clapham sect. his christian faith prompted him to become interested in social reform, particularly the improvement of factory conditions in britain.
when did he become interested in abolition?
the abolitionist, thomas clarkson had an enormous influence on wilberforce. he and others were campaigning for an end to the trade in which british ships were carrying black slaves from africa, in terrible conditions, to the west indies as goods to be bought and sold. wilberforce was persuaded to lobby for the abolition of the slave trade and for 18 years he regularly introduced anti - slavery motions in parliament. the campaign was supported by many members of the clapham sect and other abolitionists who raised public awareness of their cause with pamphlets, books, rallies and petitions. in 1807, the slave trade was finally abolished, but this did not free those who were already slaves. it was not until 1833 that an act was passed to free all slaves in the british empire.
wilberforce retired from politics in 1825 and died on 29 july 1833, shortly after the act to free slaves in the empire passed through the house of commons. he was buried near his friend pitt in westminster.

Explanation:

William Wilberforce was a British politician and social reformer. His main role in the English abolitionist movement was to campaign for the end of the slave - trade and slavery in the British Empire. He was a Member of Parliament who regularly introduced anti - slavery motions. His Christian faith influenced his social reform efforts, which also included supporting public education, the creation of a free colony in Sierra Leone, missionary societies, and helping to found the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

Answer:

William Wilberforce was a politician and social reformer who played a leading role in the English abolitionist movement, campaigned for social reforms like public education and animal welfare, and was a Member of Parliament introducing anti - slavery motions.