The London 1840 World Anti-Slavery Convention was a historic event that took place in June 1840 in London, England. It was organized by the British and Foreign Anti-Slavery Society and was attended by delegates from all over the world, including the United States, Canada, and various European countries. The convention was held in response to the growing global movement against slavery and the slave trade, and it aimed to bring together abolitionists from different countries to coordinate their efforts and exchange ideas.
The convention was held at the Freemason’s Hall in London and was attended by over 500 delegates, including prominent abolitionists such as William Lloyd Garrison, Henry Clay, and Henry Brougham. The convention was an important milestone in the history of the abolitionist movement, as it marked the first time that abolitionists from different countries had gathered in such large numbers to discuss the issue of slavery.
At the convention, delegates discussed a wide range of issues related to slavery, including the abolition of the slave trade, the rights of enslaved people, and the impact of slavery on society. They also passed several important resolutions, including a call for the immediate abolition of slavery in all countries and the establishment of an international anti-slavery organization to coordinate the efforts of abolitionists around the world.
The London 1840 World Anti-Slavery Convention is widely regarded as a significant turning point in the history of the abolitionist movement. It marked a new phase of international cooperation and solidarity among abolitionists, and it helped to bring the issue of slavery to the forefront of the global political agenda. The convention is remembered as a testament to the power of collective action and the importance of speaking out against injustice, and it continues to inspire human rights activism around the world.
A number of delegates who attended the Convention are key to the story of the anti-slavery movement in Belfast such as Richard Webb Davies, Charles Remond Lenos and Richard Allen. To learn more slavery in Belfast, book the ANTI SLAVERY BELFAST TOUR!
