Historical Events tagged with "abolition"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Politics & Government

Supreme Court Ruling on The Amistad Case

March 9th, 1841 184 years ago

The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of captive Africans aboard the Amistad, declaring their seizure illegal and affirming their right to freedom. This landmark ruling followed the 1839 revolt aboard the ship, where the captives led an uprising and later became embroiled in a legal battle over their status as slaves. The case reached the highest court after initial rulings, and arguments were made by noted figures, including former President John Quincy Adams, who defended the captives' right to liberty.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Joseph Cinqué Leads Amistad Revolt

July 2nd, 1839 185 years ago

A group of 53 kidnapped Africans, led by Joseph Cinqué, revolted against their captors aboard the slave ship Amistad near the coast of Cuba. The captives took control of the ship, seeking freedom after being forcibly taken from their homeland. The mutiny highlighted the growing tensions around the issue of slavery and the rights of individuals in bondage during this period, capturing national attention.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Frederick Douglass Escapes from Slavery

September 3rd, 1838 186 years ago

Frederick Douglass escaped from slavery in 1838, successfully fleeing from a plantation in Maryland to freedom in New York. Disguised as a sailor, Douglass utilized his intelligence and courage in an elaborate plan to navigate the dangerous journey. His successful escape marked a pivotal moment in his life, allowing him to become a prominent voice for abolition and civil rights.

Continue Reading
Arts & Culture

Completion of the Wilberforce Monument

November 12th, 1835 189 years ago

The Wilberforce Monument in Kingston upon Hull was completed in 1835, honoring William Wilberforce, a prominent figure in the abolition of the slave trade. This monument stands as a testament to his dedication and tireless efforts to end slavery, reflecting the values of freedom and justice that he championed throughout his life. It was designed by the architect Sir Gilbert Scott and was erected in the heart of Hull, the city of Wilberforce's birth. The completion of this monument marked an important moment in cultural recognition of the anti-slavery movement in Britain.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Slavery Abolished in Mauritius

February 1st, 1835 190 years ago

Slavery was officially abolished in Mauritius, a British colony in the Indian Ocean, marking a significant shift in societal structure. The British Parliament passed the Slavery Abolition Act in 1833, leading to this change. The Act led to the emancipation of all enslaved people in British colonies, including Mauritius, although it came into full effect in the colony a few years later. The transition was marked by new labor practices as the former enslaved population sought to redefine their roles in society.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Slave Revolt in Salvador da Bahia, Brazil

January 24th, 1835 190 years ago

In Salvador da Bahia, enslaved people led a revolt against oppressive conditions, marking a pivotal moment in the resistance against slavery in Brazil. This uprising involved hundreds of enslaved individuals who organized, aiming to assert their freedom and overthrow their captors. The rebellion highlighted the pervasive discontent among the enslaved population and would later contribute to the gradual abolition of slavery in the region.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Abolition of Slavery in the Cape Colony

December 1st, 1834 190 years ago

The abolition of slavery in the Cape Colony occurred following the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833, which mandated the end of slavery throughout the British Empire. This significant change took place in the Cape of Good Hope, affecting thousands of enslaved individuals. The Act was intended to improve human rights and align with growing anti-slavery sentiments in Britain. On this date, slaves were officially freed, although owners were compensated for their loss of 'property'.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Abolition of Slavery in British Empire

August 1st, 1834 190 years ago

Slavery was officially abolished in the British Empire through the Slavery Abolition Act, which came into force on this date. The act marked a significant legislative move towards ending slavery across multiple British colonies, freeing hundreds of thousands of enslaved individuals. However, slavery continued to exist in territories controlled by the East India Company until the Indian Slavery Act was introduced in 1843. The act represented a culmination of efforts by abolitionists and societal pressure for reform.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Construction Begins on Wilberforce Monument

August 1st, 1834 190 years ago

The Wilberforce Monument was initiated in Kingston upon Hull, honoring William Wilberforce's pivotal role in the abolition of the slave trade. The monument was designed to celebrate individual freedom and moral leadership, reflecting the city's pride in Wilberforce's legacy. The construction process aimed to create a lasting tribute to Wilberforce's efforts and status as a prominent public figure, symbolizing Hull's commitment to social justice and reform.

Continue Reading