Let This Voice Be Heard: Anthony Benezet, Father of Atlantic Abolitionism

Abstract

Resurrecting the true impact that Anthony Benezet had on abolition both in Pennsylvania and throughout the Atlantic world, Maurice Jackson's biography of this important Quaker abolitionist focuses on an intellectual history of his subject's writings and influence. Jackson argues that not only did Benezet help nurture the American abolition movement but he also provides a "direct personal link between the great struggles in America, Britain, and France" (xiv). Jackson claims that Benezet's prolific writings circled the Atlantic and provided inspiration for European abolition leaders to attack both slavery and the slave trade.