William Wilberforce
One of the pioneers who fought for the complete abolition of slavery was William Wilberforce. William spent 50 years fighting to end slavery in England. It was said that he was very small in stature, almost a dwarf and that he was also hunched back. He wasn't much to look at but it was said that when he got on a table to speak he became a giant.
William was born to some privilege and enjoyed a comfortable life. He was traveling in Europe when he read The Rise and Progress of Religion in the Soul by Philip Doddridge. After this he started reading his bible and praying regularly. He became a supporter of evangelical Christianity and from this and his love for Jesus Christ he become opposed to slavery. He took on abolition as a mission in his life.
He was told even by religious leaders at the time that what he wanted was an impossible thing and that he would never see the end of slavery. He eventually he had to give up parliament because of failing health, and on his death bed on July 26th 1833 he was told that Bill for the Abolition of Slavery was passed; and he passed away three days later.
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