Amazing Grace

Amazing Grace. What an awesome movie!!! This movie recounts the story of the British politician William Wilberforce, who fought for the abolition of slavery in Britain. This young and eloquent politician faced the most bitter opposition for divers reasons, among them economical reasons, personal selfishness, and fear or rebellion and revolution.

As Wilberforce tries to pass his abolition bills through the House of Lords, they were defeated. The main initial reason for his defeat occurs because British politicians are afraid that they will lose the trust of their constituents, many of whom depend on slave trade for financial reasons. Slave trade was a flourishing business in eighteenth century Britain. Most of these slaves were sold to sugar plantations in the United States and the islands of the Caribbean. Without question, the slavery enterprise brought much revenue to both the British crown and English men. For this reason, it was very hard for the House of Lords to pass an abolition bill: they believed that it would affect the British economy in a disastrous way.

There were also personal interest issues. Many of the Lords were either linked to the slave business or were related to the crown, which meant that they were directly benefited by the slave trade.

Another issue that Wilberforce faced was terrible historical timing. The French revolution started during the time that Wilberforce was trying to pass his abolition bills. Soon after that war broke out in Europe. All those fighting for abolition were faced with the prospect of being considered traitors and therefore lost all credibility and support. As the war against France continued, Wilberforce was forced to give up his fight for freedom.

Sadly enough, during this time of defeat Wilberforce faced some trials of his own. Due to illness and pains he became addicted to opium, an addiction that almost completely destroyed his health and life. However, with the help of his wife he was able to overcome this addiction and once again fully return to politics.

As the war against France came to an end, the mood in England changed, and once again the people were a little more receptive to Wilberforce's message. With the help of his friends, William devised a plan that didn't attack slave trade directly, but indirectly affected the ships that carried slaves. However, most people didn't realized this. A few months after this new bill passed, the slave trade industry was in ruins and therefore, the circumstances had become much more favorable for Wilberforce. Under this new tide, he decided to propose an abolition bill once again, this time being approved by the House of Lords and recommended to the king. With this bill, slave trade was finally over in the British Empire.

Thanks to the will power and unstoppable effort of one man, the lives of millions were saved. Amazing grace is a true example of how one man or woman can make a difference for good in the entire world. William Wilberforce will always be remembered for his offering to all the human family.

The example of William Wilberforce can be applied to our world today. There are many changes that we can bring to the world. Changes that will make the world a better place. However, these changes will take much effort if we truly want to make them happen. Following the example of Wilberforce we can fight for what we know to be right, in spite of adversity.