Question

Question 18 Passage 1 Passage 2 "Wilberforce 1789 Abolition Speech" by William Wilberforce When I consider the magnitude of the subject which I am to bring before the House—a subject, in which the interests, not of this country, nor of Europe alone, but of the whole world, and of posterity, are involved: and when I think, at the same time, on the weakness of the advocate who has undertaken this great cause—when these reflections press upon my mind, it is impossible for me not to feel both terrified and concerned at my own inadequacy to such a task. But when I reflect, however, on the encouragement which I have had through the whole course of a long and A) Use the passages to answer the question. Select Passage 1 and Passage 2. Why is Wilberforce’s speech a seminal document? (1 point) It signals a clear shift from an absolute monarchy to a constitutional monarchy. It indicates a shift toward a more powerful monarchy. It supports government policy at the time that enslavement is wrong. It reveals the hypocrisy of the Bill of Rights’ claim that cruel and unusual punishments are not to be inflicted.

Answer 1

Wilberforce's speech is a seminal document because it supports government policy at the time that enslavement is wrong. His passionate advocacy for the abolition of slavery highlights the moral imperatives and the need for social reform, indicating a significant shift in public consciousness regarding the institution of slavery and its ethical implications. This aligns with the historical context of the abolition movement, making his speech an important milestone in the fight for human rights.