William Wilberforce: A Biography

"William Wilberforce: A Biography" delves into the intense and pivotal role played by William Wilberforce in the fight against the transatlantic slave trade. Published to coincide with the 200th anniversary of the Anti-Slave Trade Act, this engaging narrative sets the stage in the late 18th century, a time when Britain was a leading player in transporting tens of thousands of Africans annually to the Caribbean. From his early days as a charismatic figure in Parliament to his profound Christian conversion, Wilberforce’s journey is one of deep faith and enduring commitment to justice and human rights. Author Stephen Tomkins captures the exhaustive twenty-year political struggle that Wilberforce waged, bringing to life the complexities and contradictions of a man who became a tireless activist for racial justice. Ideal for high school readers, this biography not only charts a historical fight against immense odds but also inspires a reflection on how one individual's resolve can trigger monumental change in society.