Bury the Chains; Chapter Nine

In the beginning of this chapter, we are told that Clarkson was in immediate need of Parliament support. Even though his trips to Manchester and Liverpool were so successful on a smaller scale, the need for government backing had become imminent. One prominent figure with financial backing and Parliament experience, was Wilberforce. Clarkson, with a prior subtle relationship with this man, thought that he could be the ticket to Parliament support for the committee of abolitionists' widespread movement. The movement became global in 1788, when pamphlets were printed and translated to other languages and sent to citizens of France, Portugal, Spain, etc. From a marketing standpoint, Josiah Wedgewood was taken into the group for his public flair. His biggest contribution was the stamp that was placed on every envelope that the group sent. It depicted an African on his knees suffering, which became an icon for the group's movement. We are reintroduced to John Newton, who had now had a great deal to offer to Clarkson and the group about his own experience in the viscous trade. Due to illness, Wilberforce had to push back the initial abolitionist's debate. However, the movement was becoming more and more wide spread with the help of others.