GlossariesGCSE GlossariesGCSE History GlossaryAbolition

Abolition - GCSE History Definition

Reviewed by: Zoe Wade

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Abolition refers to the movement aimed at ending the practice of slavery and the slave trade. Abolitionists were individuals and groups who campaigned for the freedom of enslaved people, using methods such as lobbying, books, legal action, and public speaking. This movement gained influence in the 18th and 19th centuries. This pressure helped pass acts such as the Slave Trade Act of 1807 and the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833 in Britain, which legally ended slavery in the British Empire. In the context of GCSE History, studying abolition helps students understand the social, political, and economic challenges and changes during this important time.

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Zoe Wade

Reviewer: Zoe Wade

Expertise: History Content Creator

Zoe has worked in education for 10 years as a teaching assistant and a teacher. This has given her an in-depth perspective on how to support all learners to achieve to the best of their ability. She has been the Lead of Key Stage 4 History, showing her expertise in the Edexcel GCSE syllabus and how best to revise. Ever since she was a child, Zoe has been passionate about history. She believes now, more than ever, the study of history is vital to explaining the ever-changing world around us. Zoe’s focus is to create accessible content that breaks down key historical concepts and themes to achieve GCSE success.

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