Support for the Slave Trade (Anti Abolitionist Movement) Flashcards
Who were the main groups that supported the continuation of the slave trade?
The King, members of the Government, the Anglican Church, the Aristocracy, and business and trading interests supported the slave trade and its continuation.
What was the argument related to Britain’s naval power and the slave trade?
Anti-abolitionists argued that Britain’s position as the world’s greatest naval power depended on the slave trade, as it employed thousands of sailors and provided essential seafaring skills.
How did plantation owners argue against the abolition of the slave trade?
Plantation owners claimed that abolition would ruin them, leading to the collapse of industries like sugar production, which was essential to their wealth.
What was the economic argument used by anti-abolitionists regarding the slave trade?
The slave trade was very profitable and brought huge wealth to Britain. The government also depended on taxes related to the trade.
How did some anti-abolitionists justify the practice of slavery in terms of the Africans’ condition?
Some argued that Africans were happier and could be civilized and converted to Christianity while enslaved. They also claimed that enslaved Africans were prisoners of war who would be killed if they could not be sold.
What did anti-abolitionists believe would happen if the slave trade was abolished?
Some feared that abolition would lead to slave revolts in the West Indies, which would harm the economy and British interests in the colonies.
How did racist views influence anti-abolition arguments?
Many believed Africans were inferior and not ready for freedom, thinking it was God’s will that they remain enslaved.
How did anti-abolitionists argue that the slave trade was not cruel?
Anti-abolitionists gave evidence to Parliament claiming the trade was vital to Britain and that slaves were treated well on British ships.
What methods did anti-abolitionists use to oppose abolition?
Merchants set up organizations like the African Committee and the West Indies Planters Association. Petitions were sent to Parliament, and slave-owning Members of Parliament voted against abolition. Some also bribed MPs to oppose the trade’s end.
How did anti-abolitionists use public communication to support their cause?
Anti-abolitionists wrote letters to newspapers, sent petitions, and used public meetings to defend the slave trade and argue against abolition.
