Definition: Abolitionism was a political ideology and practice that opposed slavery, particularly in the United States during the late 19th century. This movement often conflated abolition with secession from Union authority. It sought to end slavery by means other than the immediate abolition of the institution. Abolitionist activists sought not only for a return to original rights but also for an end to social and political oppression that was inherent in the institution. The term "abolitionism" came into common usage after the 1857 Boston Tea Party, which involved the dumping of tea from British ships in Boston Harbor. The history behind abolitionism is complex and varies across different historical periods. In the United States, abolitionists often opposed slavery and advocated for civil rights and freedom through other means such as secession or revolution rather than outright abolition. The term "abolitionist" generally refers to an individual who supports the idea of ending slavery by means other than immediate abolition. In the broader context of the 19th century United States, the movement towards abolitionism was driven by various social and economic factors including the industrialization of North America, the expansion of slavery into new territories, and the growing influence of the anti-slavery movement. The term "abolition" became a common word in the discourse to refer to any action that sought to end slavery or promote emancipation through non-violent means such as secession from Union authority. In summary, Abolitionism was an ideology that aimed to end slavery by various means, including secession and other forms of political resistance against it. The term "abolition" is often used in this context because it encompasses any action taken to end slavery or promote its abolition through non-violent means rather than outright abolition.

abolitionism