Thomas Fowell Buxton
- Born:
- April 1, 1786, Earls Colne, Essex, England
- Died:
- February 19, 1845, Northrepps Hall, Norfolk, England
- Nationality:
- British
- Profession(s):
- Politician, Philanthropist, Social Reformer
Early Life and Education
- Born into a wealthy Quaker family.
- Educated at a school in Kingston and later at Trinity College, Dublin, where he excelled in athletics and academics.
- Married Hannah Gurney, a member of the influential Gurney family, in 1807.
Career and Major Achievements
- Entered the family brewery business, Truman, Hanbury & Buxton, becoming a partner.
- Elected Member of Parliament for Weymouth in 1818.
- Became a prominent figure in the anti-slavery movement, succeeding William Wilberforce as its leader in the House of Commons.
- Advocated for prison reform, improved conditions for indigenous populations, and other social causes.
- Instrumental in the passage of the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833, which abolished slavery throughout the British Empire.
- Led the Niger Expedition of 1841, an attempt to promote trade and Christianity in West Africa to suppress the slave trade, though it ultimately failed due to disease.
Notable Works
- An Inquiry into the Nature of the Prison Discipline (1816)
- Numerous speeches and pamphlets advocating for the abolition of slavery and other social reforms.
Legacy and Impact
Sir Thomas Fowell Buxton's legacy lies in his tireless efforts to abolish slavery and promote social justice. He is remembered as a key figure in the anti-slavery movement and a dedicated advocate for the oppressed.
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