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How important was the decline in the economic importance of slavery as a reason for the success of the abolitionist campaign in 1807? - Scottish Highers History - Question 9 - 2019
Question 9
How important was the decline in the economic importance of slavery as a reason for the success of the abolitionist campaign in 1807?
Worked Solution & Example Answer:How important was the decline in the economic importance of slavery as a reason for the success of the abolitionist campaign in 1807? - Scottish Highers History - Question 9 - 2019
Step 1
Decline in the economic importance of slavery
Answer
The decline in the economic importance of slavery played a significant role in the success of the abolitionist campaign in 1807. By the late 18th century, Britain's economic reliance on slavery was diminishing due to several factors:
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Shifts in Investments: As the importance of slavery decreased, so did the attention of potential investors. Fewer economic benefits were perceived from the slave trade as other markets, such as India, began to flourish.
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Agricultural Advancements: The Industrial Revolution introduced technological advancements that changed agricultural practices. With the improvements in agriculture, the British economy started relying less on slave-produced goods like sugar.
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Political Context: As Britain faced various military conflicts, notably with France, the debate around slavery became intertwined with national interests. The economic case against slavery began to appeal more to policymakers.
Consequently, the diminishing importance of the slave economy became a compelling argument for abolitionists to leverage.
Step 2
Effects of slave resistance
Answer
The resistance from enslaved individuals, notably in the Caribbean, highlighted the inherent instability of slavery. The rebellion in Saint-Domingue, for instance, showcased the potential for violent uprisings, impacting British perceptions of slavery as a viable economic structure. Such events influenced public opinion, suggesting that the abolition of slavery might be a necessary step for social and economic stability.
Step 3
Military Actions and the Abolitionist Movement
Answer
Military campaigns against slavery helped shape the context in which the abolitionist campaign thrived. Figures such as Thomas Clarkson and Granville Sharp led efforts to draw attention to the moral imperatives behind abolition, and this advocacy found resonance during the period of campaigning against slavery. Their activities and collection of evidence against the trade were crucial in mobilizing public support.
Step 4
Role of Religious Groups
Answer
Religious groups, particularly Quakers and other non-conformist congregations, played a pivotal role in the abolitionist movement. They framed the abolition of slavery as a moral imperative, leveraging their networks to organize and lobby against slave trade practices, thus adding a moral weight to the economic arguments.