This is a true story of the long and determined struggle in Britain to bring an end to the cruel and inhumane slave trade, at least in that country. It would be at least another 50 years before the ugly trade ended in the U.S.
I was particularly interested in it because it is also a story about an early activist campaign and the tactics used. Did you know that the first campaign buttons were made of beautiful pottery by the famous Wedgewood Potters and were proudly worn by supporters?
The movement had a strong leadership by Quakers, of which I am a member in Canada,so I had a strong interest in learning more about their role in the struggle. Another historical outcome was that it brought along subsequent struggles by other oppressed groups also to attain 'rights'. As an environmental and peace activist for much of my life, I felt encouraged that these early activists has been successful, as in the rights of working people to safe work places and fair wages and humane treatment, and it certainly encouraged women to struggle for their rights to equality and recognition as women. The first campaign button showed a black man kneeling and saying "Am I not a man like you?" and soon white middle and upper class women were demanding one showing a black woman kneeling, and asking "Am I not a woman like you?"
The story is absorbing, dramatic, and a great read and a great bit of history. The fight for equality is ongoing everywhere in the world. I bought my copy from Amazon as a gift to a perceptive young 18 year old friend for his next Birthday. I'm sure he'll like it.
