Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Today in History: Slave Trade Act abolishes Atlantic slave trade in Empire

3/25/2026

42 5

Summary

Story summary

On March 25, 1807, the Slave Trade Act received royal assent, prohibiting the Atlantic slave trade within the British Empire. This landmark legislation, after 18 years of advocacy, did not free existing enslaved individuals but marked a significant step towards abolition, urging other nations to follow suit in ending their slave trades.

1 of 1

Story summary

On March 25, 1807, the Slave Trade Act received royal assent, prohibiting the Atlantic slave trade within the British Empire. This landmark legislation, after 18 years of advocacy, did not free existing enslaved individuals but marked a significant step towards abolition, urging other nations to follow suit in ending their slave trades.