Ottobah Cugoano
- Born:
- c. 1757, Ajumako, Ghana
- Died:
- After 1791, possibly London, England (exact date unknown)
- Nationality:
- Ghanaian (African)
- Profession(s):
- Abolitionist, Author, Natural Philosopher, Tradesman
Early Life and Education
- Kidnapped from his home in Ajumako, Ghana, around the age of 13.
- Trafficked through the transatlantic slave trade to Grenada.
- Later purchased by an English merchant and taken to England, where he was freed.
- Received some level of education in England, becoming literate and developing intellectual skills.
Career and Major Achievements
- Became a prominent figure in the British abolitionist movement.
- Worked as a servant and later became involved in trade.
- Actively participated in anti-slavery campaigns, writing and speaking out against the institution.
Notable Works
- Thoughts and Sentiments on the Evil and Wicked Traffic of the Slavery and Commerce of the Human Species (1787): A powerful abolitionist treatise. This work, which can be considered an 'ottobah cugoano autobiography featuring' reflections on his experience, argued for the immediate abolition of slavery and the equal rights of Africans.
- A Description of Sierra Leone (1791): A pamphlet promoting the Sierra Leone resettlement project for formerly enslaved people.
Legacy and Impact
Ottobah Cugoano's writings and activism played a crucial role in raising awareness about the horrors of slavery and advocating for its abolition. He is remembered as one of the earliest and most influential African voices in the British abolitionist movement, and his work continues to inspire those fighting for social justice and human rights. His powerful critique of slavery challenged the prevailing justifications for the institution and contributed significantly to the growing momentum for its eventual abolition.