William Wilberforce was the driving force behind the bill for the abolition of the slave trade that was passed by the British Parliament in 1807. Wilberforce, a British politician and philanthropist, dedicated much of his life to the cause of ending the transatlantic slave trade.

Wilberforce first introduced a bill to abolish the slave trade in 1789, but it was not until 1807 that the bill was finally passed. The Slave Trade Act of 1807 made it illegal to engage in the buying or selling of enslaved people within the British Empire, effectively putting an end to the transatlantic slave trade.

Wilberforce's tireless campaigning and advocacy were instrumental in securing the passage of the bill. He worked closely with other abolitionists, such as Thomas Clarkson and Olaudah Equiano, to build public support for the abolitionist cause.

The passing of the bill marked a significant victory for the abolitionist movement and paved the way for further efforts to end slavery in the British Empire. Wilberforce continued to push for the abolition of slavery, and in 1833, just three days before his death, the Slavery Abolition Act was passed, effectively ending slavery in the British Empire.

Wilberforce's legacy as a champion of human rights and social justice continues to inspire people around the world today. His efforts to end the slave trade helped to bring about lasting change and set an example for future generations to follow.

For more information on William Wilberforce and the abolition of the slave trade, you can visit the following websites:

• BBC History - William Wilberforce
• History.com - William Wilberforce

Sign Up