Chapter 9

In Chapter 9 of Adam Hochschild’s novel Bury the Chains, William Wilberforce is introduced and is mainly recognized for his excellent public speaking abilities. Clarkson along with many other Quakers felt that Wilberforce was the “ideal voice” of the anti-slave trade campaign in the House of Commons. “He had a reputation for integrity, he was a political independent, he was wealthy… Most importantly of all he was a close friend of William Pitt…” Pitt had a lot of respect for William Wilberforce, as a speaker along with his other abilities. Wilberforce ultimately became a very influential speaker for the anti-slavery movement at the House of Commons. Many pamphlets and books were translated into different languages and sent all around the world to promote awareness and even gain support. One crucial moment that occurred was the passing of the bill by Sir William Dolben. The bill required a death list of both slaves and crew members, as well as limiting the amount of slaves on a ship.