William Wilberforce and the Fight Against Slavery

William Wilberforce was born in Hull on 24 August 1759 in a house on the High Street that still stands today as a museum. He would go on to lead one of the most remarkable campaigns in British political history — the abolition of the slave trade.

Early Life in Hull

Wilberforce was born into a prosperous merchant family. His grandfather had been twice Mayor of Hull, and the family fortune was built on the Baltic trade. The young William was educated at Hull Grammar School before attending St John's College, Cambridge.

Entering Politics

Wilberforce was elected MP for Hull in 1780, aged just 21. He soon transferred to the prestigious Yorkshire constituency, one of the largest in England. His wit, charm, and oratorical skills made him a popular figure in Parliament.

The Conversion

In 1785, Wilberforce underwent a profound religious conversion that transformed his life and purpose. He considered leaving politics for the church, but was persuaded by his friend John Newton — a former slave trader turned clergyman who wrote "Amazing Grace" — that he could do more good in Parliament.

The Campaign

From 1787, Wilberforce devoted himself to the abolition of the slave trade. The campaign was long, difficult, and bitterly opposed by powerful commercial interests. Key moments include:

• 1789: Wilberforce's first speech against the slave trade in Parliament
• 1791: His abolition bill defeated by 163 votes to 88
• 1792: The House of Commons votes for "gradual" abolition, but the Lords block it
• 1804-1805: Further bills passed by the Commons, rejected by the Lords

Victory

On 23 February 1807, Parliament finally passed the Abolition of the Slave Trade Act by 283 votes to 16. The result was met with a standing ovation for Wilberforce. The act made it illegal to trade in enslaved people throughout the British Empire.

Wilberforce continued to campaign for the complete abolition of slavery itself. The Slavery Abolition Act was passed on 26 July 1833, just three days before Wilberforce died.

Hull's Heritage

Wilberforce's birthplace on the High Street is now the Wilberforce House Museum, a free museum telling the story of the transatlantic slave trade and the campaign for abolition. It is one of Hull's most important cultural attractions and a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have on the world.