The slave trade was a highly lucrative business, and many people had a financial interest in its continuation. This included plantation owners, shipping magnates, and merchants who profited from the trade. These groups were well-organized and politically powerful, and they used their influence to oppose Wilberforce's efforts to abolish slavery.
Racism and prejudice
Many people in the 18th century believed that black people were inferior to white people. This racism was used to justify slavery, as it was argued that black people were incapable of self-government and needed to be controlled by white people. Wilberforce had to overcome these deeply ingrained prejudices in order to convince people that slavery was wrong.
Political challenges
Wilberforce faced a number of political challenges in his efforts to abolish slavery. The British government was initially opposed to abolition, fearing that it would damage the economy and lead to unrest in the colonies. Wilberforce had to build support for abolition in Parliament, which was a slow and difficult process. He also had to contend with the opposition of the King, George III, who was a slave owner himself.
Personal challenges
Wilberforce faced a number of personal challenges in his efforts to abolish slavery. He was often the target of abuse and ridicule from those who opposed him. He also had to deal with the personal toll of his work, which often left him exhausted and depressed.
Despite these challenges, Wilberforce persevered in his efforts to abolish slavery. He eventually succeeded in passing the Abolition Act in 1807, which made the slave trade illegal in the British Empire. He continued to work for the abolition of slavery in other countries until his death in 1833.