Comparing Timelines
Exploring the overlapping histories of "Abolitionism" and "Industrial Revolution".
Abolitionism
1315 - 2022
Industrial Revolution
1700 - 1930
1315 CE
France Outlaws Slavery in Metropolitan Territory
Louis X, king of France, published a decree proclaiming that 'France signifies freedom' and that any slave setting foot on French soil should be freed. This was the first country to fully outlaw slavery, though it was later used in French colonies. The decree established the principle that French soil was incompatible with slavery.
1542 CE
Spain Enacts New Laws Abolishing Indigenous Slavery
Spain passed the New Laws in 1542, which abolished native slavery for the first time in European colonial history. This legislation was influenced by Bartolomé de las Casas' advocacy for indigenous rights and his book 'A Short Account of the Destruction of the Indies'. The laws represented the first systematic attempt to protect indigenous peoples from enslavement.
1569 CE
English Court Rules Against Slavery Recognition
An English court considered the case of Cartwright, who had bought a slave from Russia, and ruled that English law could not recognize slavery as it was never established officially. This early legal precedent challenged the legitimacy of slavery under English common law, though it was later overshadowed by subsequent developments.
1590 CE
Japan Abolishes Chattel Slavery
Under the actions of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, chattel slavery was abolished across Japan. This made Japan one of the earliest countries to systematically eliminate slavery, though other forms of forced labor continued to be used, particularly during World War II. The abolition represented a significant shift in Japanese social policy.
1698 CE
Thomas Savery patents steam pump
Thomas Savery patented the first commercially successful industrial use of steam power in 1698. His low-lift combined vacuum and pressure water pump generated about one horsepower and was used in waterworks and mines, marking the beginning of steam power applications.
1700 CE
Lord Chief Justice Holt Upholds Anti-Slavery Ruling
Lord Chief Justice John Holt ruled that a slave became free as soon as he arrived in England, upholding the earlier 1569 precedent. This decision reinforced the principle that English common law did not recognize slavery, setting important legal groundwork for future abolitionist arguments in British courts.
1701 CE
Jethro Tull's mechanical seed drill developed
Jethro Tull's mechanical seed drill was developed in the early 18th century (around 1701), ensuring more even sowing and depth control. This agricultural innovation was part of the British Agricultural Revolution that supported industrial development by increasing food production efficiency.
1704 CE
John Harris publishes Lexicon Technicum
John Harris published the Lexicon Technicum, offering extensive scientific and engineering entries. This technical encyclopedia helped disseminate industrial methods and knowledge, contributing to the spread of technological innovation during the early Industrial Revolution.
1709 CE
Abraham Darby uses coke in blast furnaces
Abraham Darby made progress using coke to fuel his blast furnaces at Coalbrookdale. This innovation began the transition from charcoal to coke in iron production, though the coke pig iron was initially only suitable for cast iron goods rather than wrought iron.
1712 CE
Thomas Newcomen introduces steam engine
Thomas Newcomen introduced the first successful piston steam engine before 1712. These engines were installed for draining deep mines and represented the first practical application of steam power, though they were extremely inefficient by modern standards.
1721 CE
John Lombe's silk mill becomes operational
John Lombe's water-powered silk mill at Derby became operational, arguably the first highly mechanised factory. Lombe had learned silk thread manufacturing by acting as an industrial spy in Italy, representing early technology transfer and industrial espionage.
1730 CE
Joseph Foljambe develops iron Rotherham plough
Joseph Foljambe developed the iron Rotherham plough around 1730. This agricultural innovation was part of the British Agricultural Revolution that increased crop yields and released labor for industrial employment, supporting the broader Industrial Revolution.
1733 CE
John Kay patents the flying shuttle
John Kay patented the flying shuttle in 1733, which doubled the output of a weaver. This innovation worsened the imbalance between spinning and weaving, creating pressure for further technological developments in textile production.
1740 CE
Benjamin Huntsman develops crucible steel technique
Benjamin Huntsman developed his crucible steel technique in the 1740s. This improvement in steel production was crucial as steel was an expensive commodity used only where iron would not suffice, such as for cutting edge tools and springs.
1743 CE
Factory opens in Northampton with Paul and Wyatt's machines
A factory opened in Northampton with 50 spindles on each of five of Paul and Wyatt's machines. Lewis Paul had patented the roller spinning frame and flyer-and-bobbin system, representing early mechanization of textile production.
1748 CE
Paul and Bourn patent carding machines
Paul and Bourn patented carding machines in 1748. Based on two sets of rollers that travelled at different speeds, this technology was later used in the first cotton spinning mill, advancing textile mechanization.
1755 CE
First Scottish Freedom Suit Filed
The case of Montgomery v. Sheddan took place in Scotland, representing one of the first freedom suits in the British Isles to challenge the legality of slavery. The slave had been baptized in Scotland and challenged his enslavement, setting important legal precedents for future cases, though the case ended before a court decision due to the plaintiff's death.
1757 CE
John Wilkinson patents hydraulic powered blowing engine
Ironmaster John Wilkinson patented a hydraulic powered blowing engine for blast furnaces in 1757. This innovation improved the efficiency of iron production by providing better blast power for furnaces.
1760 CE
Industrial Revolution begins in Great Britain
The Industrial Revolution began in Great Britain around 1760, marking the start of a transitional period toward more widespread, efficient manufacturing processes. This transformation included the shift from hand production to machines and the rise of the mechanized factory system.
Cast iron blowing cylinder first used
The cast iron blowing cylinder was first used in 1760, improving blast furnace operations. This innovation allowed for higher blast furnace temperatures and increased iron production efficiency.
Hamleys toy store opens in London
Hamleys, the oldest toy store, opened in London in 1760. This represents the growth of consumer retail businesses during the Industrial Revolution, as rising prosperity created new markets for consumer goods.
1761 CE
Bridgewater Canal opens
The Bridgewater Canal in North West England opened in 1761, proving hugely commercially successful. From Worsley to Manchester, it cost £168,000 but reduced coal prices in Manchester by half within one year, inspiring Canal Mania across Britain.
1764 CE
James Hargreaves invents the spinning jenny
James Hargreaves invented the spinning jenny in Oswaldtwistle, Lancashire in 1764. It was the first practical spinning frame with multiple spindles, revolutionizing textile production by allowing one worker to spin multiple threads simultaneously.
1768 CE
Cast iron blowing cylinder used at Carrington
The first blowing cylinder made of cast iron is believed to be the one used at Carrington in 1768, designed by John Smeaton. This advancement improved blast furnace efficiency and iron production capacity.
1769 CE
Second Scottish Freedom Suit
The case of Spens v. Dalrymple was heard in Scotland, continuing the legal challenges to slavery in Scottish courts. Like the previous case, the enslaved person had been baptized in Scotland and challenged the legality of their bondage. These cases established important legal procedures that would later lead to successful outcomes for plaintiffs in similar situations.
Richard Arkwright patents the water frame
Richard Arkwright patented the water frame in 1769, which could produce hard, medium-count thread suitable for warp. This finally allowed 100% cotton cloth to be made in Britain, revolutionizing textile production.
1771 CE
Arkwright establishes water-powered factory at Cromford
Richard Arkwright used water power at a factory in Cromford, Derbyshire in 1771, giving the water frame its name. This represented the establishment of the factory system and mechanized production methods.
1772 CE
Somerset's Case Establishes Anti-Slavery Precedent
Lord Mansfield delivered his landmark judgment in Somerset's Case, declaring that slavery had no basis in English common law. The case involved James Somerset, a fugitive slave whose master attempted to ship him to Jamaica. Mansfield's decision was widely interpreted as prohibiting slavery in England, though it did not apply to British overseas territories.
1774 CE
John Wilkinson invents cylinder boring machine
John Wilkinson invented a machine for boring cylinders in 1774. This was the first large precision machine tool and was crucial for manufacturing steam engine cylinders, enabling the development of more efficient steam engines.
Leeds and Liverpool Canal opens
The Leeds and Liverpool Canal opened in 1774, becoming one of the most notable canals built during Canal Mania. This canal connected major industrial centers and facilitated the transport of raw materials and finished goods.
1776 CE
Wilkinson bores first successful cylinder for Watt engine
John Wilkinson bored the first successful cylinder for a Boulton and Watt steam engine in 1776, leading to an exclusive contract for providing cylinders. This precision manufacturing was crucial for steam engine development.
1777 CE
Vermont Abolishes Adult Slavery
Vermont became the first state in what would become the United States to abolish adult slavery through its constitution. As an independent republic from 1777 to 1791, Vermont's action preceded its joining the Union and represented the first systematic abolition of slavery in North America by a political entity.
1778 CE
Knight v. Wedderburn Extends Anti-Slavery Law to Scotland
The Court of Session of Scotland ruled in Knight v. Wedderburn that chattel slavery was not recognized under Scottish law. Joseph Knight, an enslaved African brought from Jamaica, successfully argued for his freedom. The court declared that slaves could seek court protection to leave a master or avoid being forcibly removed from Scotland.
Iron Bridge opens in Shropshire
The Iron Bridge opened in 1778, built with cast iron produced by Abraham Darby III. This was the world's first bridge constructed of iron and demonstrated the structural potential of cast iron as a building material.
James Watt perfects his steam engine
James Watt, with financial support from Matthew Boulton, perfected his steam engine by 1778. The engine incorporated radical improvements including a separate steam condenser chamber, increasing efficiency dramatically and using only 20-25% as much coal as Newcomen's engines.
1779 CE
Samuel Crompton invents the spinning mule
Samuel Crompton invented the spinning mule in 1779, a hybrid of Arkwright's water frame and Hargreaves's spinning jenny. The mule could produce finer thread than hand spinning at lower cost and was suitable for use as warp, allowing Britain to produce highly competitive yarn.
1780 CE
Pennsylvania Passes Gradual Emancipation Act
Pennsylvania became the first U.S. state to pass legislation for the gradual abolition of slavery. The act provided that no new slaves could be imported and that children born to enslaved mothers would eventually be freed, though existing slaves remained in bondage. This pioneering legislation served as a model for other northern states.
1781 CE
Iron Bridge officially opens
The Iron Bridge in Shropshire officially opened in 1781, becoming the world's first bridge constructed entirely of iron. This landmark engineering achievement demonstrated the structural capabilities of cast iron and influenced future construction methods.
1782 CE
Watt develops rotary steam engine
James Watt developed a rotary steam engine in 1782, which could directly drive factory machinery. This innovation made steam power widely applicable to industrial processes including blowing, hammering, rolling and slitting operations.
1783 CE
Henry Cort develops rolling process
Henry Cort developed the rolling process in 1783, which was fifteen times faster than hammering wrought iron. This innovation significantly improved the efficiency of iron production and processing.
Watt steam engine becomes double-acting rotative type
The Watt steam engine was fully developed into a double-acting rotative type in 1783, meaning it could directly drive rotary machinery in factories and mills. This advancement made steam power practical for widespread industrial use.
1784 CE
Henry Cort develops puddling process
Henry Cort developed the puddling process in 1784, which produced structural grade iron at relatively low cost. This process became widely used after 1800 and was crucial for producing high-quality wrought iron, though it was backbreaking work.
Andrew Meikle invents threshing machine
Andrew Meikle invented the threshing machine in 1784, which reduced manual labor requirements in agriculture. Hand threshing had taken about one-quarter of agricultural labor, so this innovation freed up workers for industrial employment.
1785 CE
Edmund Cartwright patents power loom
Edmund Cartwright developed and patented a vertical power loom in 1785. Realizing that the expiration of Arkwright's patent would increase cotton supply and create a weaver shortage, Cartwright's invention mechanized weaving to match spinning capacity.
Oliver Evans invents automated flour mill
Oliver Evans invented an automated flour mill in the mid-1780s that used control mechanisms and conveyors requiring no labor from grain loading to flour discharge. This is considered the first modern materials handling system and an important advance toward mass production.
1787 CE
Society for Effecting the Abolition of the Slave Trade Founded
The Society for Effecting the Abolition of the Slave Trade was formed in London, marking the beginning of organized British abolitionist activism. This society would become instrumental in the parliamentary campaign against the slave trade, with members like William Wilberforce and Thomas Clarkson leading the movement.
Beverly Cotton Manufactory founded
Thomas Somers and the Cabot Brothers founded the Beverly Cotton Manufactory in 1787, the first cotton mill in America and the largest of its era. Though initially designed for horsepower, it served as a playground of innovation for cotton processing.
1788 CE
Society of the Friends of the Blacks Established
Jacques Pierre Brissot founded the Society of the Friends of the Blacks (Société des Amis des Noirs) in Paris to work for the abolition of slavery. This organization played a crucial role in building anti-slavery sentiment in France and would influence the revolutionary government's decision to abolish slavery in 1794.
1789 CE
Thames and Severn Canal opens
The Thames and Severn Canal opened in 1789, connecting major waterways and facilitating trade and transport. This canal was part of the broader canal building boom that transformed Britain's transportation infrastructure during the Industrial Revolution.
1791 CE
Haitian Revolution Begins
The slave revolt in Saint-Domingue began, marking the start of what would become the Haitian Revolution. Led by formerly enslaved people like Georges Biassou, Toussaint L'Ouverture, and Jean-Jacques Dessalines, this revolution would ultimately lead to Haiti becoming the first nation to achieve independence through a successful slave revolt.
Nicolas Leblanc introduces soda ash production method
Nicolas Leblanc succeeded in introducing a method for large-scale production of sodium carbonate (soda ash) in 1791. The Leblanc process enabled mass production of this important chemical used in glass, textile, soap, and paper industries.
Prague hosts first World's Fair
Prague hosted the first World's Fair in 1791 in Clementinum, showcasing the region's growing industrial sophistication. This exhibition celebrated advanced manufacturing techniques in the Czech lands and demonstrated the spread of industrialization beyond Britain.
1792 CE
Denmark Decrees End to Transatlantic Slave Trade
Denmark became the first country to issue a decree to abolish their transatlantic slave trade, effective from the start of 1803. While this was a significant step, Denmark would not abolish slavery in the Danish West Indies until 1848. The decree represented the first national commitment to ending participation in the Atlantic slave trade.
France Grants Citizenship to Free People of Color
Following the French Revolution, France granted free people of color full citizenship on April 4, 1792. This significant step toward racial equality preceded the complete abolition of slavery and represented a major advancement in civil rights for people of African descent in French territories.
Eli Whitney invents cotton gin
Eli Whitney invented the cotton gin in 1792, which could remove seed from cotton 50 times faster than by hand. This invention made upland cotton profitable and led to the massive expansion of slave plantations in the American South.
1793 CE
Upper Canada Passes Act Against Slavery
Upper Canada passed the Act Against Slavery under Lieutenant Governor John Graves Simcoe, becoming the first legislation against slavery in the British Empire. The act prohibited the importation of new slaves and provided for the gradual emancipation of existing slaves, with children of enslaved mothers to be freed at age 25.
First Modern Emancipation Proclamation Issued
French Civil Commissioners Léger-Félicité Sonthonax and Étienne Polverel issued the first emancipation proclamation of the modern world (Decree of 16 Pluviôse An II) in Saint-Domingue. This proclamation was a crucial military strategy that brought most black troops into the French fold during the Haitian Revolution.
Samuel Slater founds Slater Mill
Samuel Slater founded Slater Mill at Pawtucket, Rhode Island in 1793. Having learned textile technologies as an apprentice in England, Slater defied laws against skilled worker emigration and established one of America's first successful textile mills.
1794 CE
France Abolishes Slavery in All Territories
The French National Convention, under the leadership of Maximilien Robespierre, abolished slavery in law in France and its colonies on February 4, 1794. This was the first general abolition of slavery by a major European power, though Napoleon would later restore it in 1802. The law provided for compensation to slave owners.
1795 CE
Boulton and Watt open Soho Foundry
Boulton and Watt opened the Soho Foundry for the manufacture of steam engines in 1795. This facility became a major center for steam engine production and helped spread steam technology throughout Britain and beyond.
1796 CE
Harding, Howell & Co. opens first department store
Harding, Howell & Co. opened one of the first department stores in 1796 on Pall Mall, London. This represented the evolution of retail during the Industrial Revolution as rising prosperity created demand for diverse consumer goods in centralized locations.
1798 CE
Louis-Nicolas Robert patents paper machine
Louis-Nicolas Robert patented a machine for making continuous sheet paper on a loop of wire fabric in France in 1798. This innovation, later known as the Fourdrinier machine, revolutionized paper production and influenced other continuous production processes.
1799 CE
First use of 'Industrial Revolution' term
The earliest recorded use of 'Industrial Revolution' was in 1799 by French envoy Louis-Guillaume Otto, announcing that France had entered the race to industrialize. This marked the recognition of the transformative economic changes occurring across Europe.
1800 CE
Charles Tennant develops bleaching powder
Chemist Charles Tennant developed bleaching powder (calcium hypochlorite) in 1800, based on Claude Louis Berthollet's discoveries. This revolutionized textile bleaching by reducing the time required from repeated sun exposure to a chemical process.
Boulton and Watt patent expires
The Boulton and Watt patent expired around 1800, allowing other inventors like Richard Trevithick and Oliver Evans to develop higher-pressure steam engines. This led to more compact engines suitable for mobile applications like locomotives and steamboats.
1801 CE
First mechanical loom introduced in Czech lands
The first mechanical loom in the Czech lands was introduced in Varnsdorf in 1801, followed shortly by steam engines in Bohemia and Moravia. This marked the beginning of industrialization in the Habsburg realms, with the Czech lands becoming the industrial hub.
1802 CE
Colonel Delgrès Leads Guadeloupe Rebellion
Colonel Delgrès launched a rebellion in Guadeloupe against Napoleon's representative, General Richepanse, in response to the re-establishment of slavery. The rebellion was ultimately repressed, and slavery was re-established in the colony. This resistance demonstrated the fierce opposition to the restoration of bondage.
Napoleon Re-establishes Slavery in French Colonies
Napoleon Bonaparte promulgated the law of May 20, 1802, re-establishing slavery in French colonies after becoming First Consul. This decision was influenced by pressure from planters, concerns about colonial revenues, and his wife's slaveholder family connections. Military governors and troops were sent to enforce the restoration of slavery.
Abraham Rees publishes The Cyclopaedia
Abraham Rees published The Cyclopaedia; or, Universal Dictionary of Arts, Sciences, and Literature between 1802-19. This technical encyclopedia contained detailed articles and engraved plates on machines and processes, helping disseminate industrial knowledge.
1804 CE
Haiti Declares Independence and Abolishes Slavery
Haiti formally declared independence from France, becoming the first nation in the Western Hemisphere to permanently eliminate slavery in the modern era following the successful Haitian Revolution. This achievement made Haiti the first and only country to self-liberate from slavery through revolution, establishing a precedent for anti-colonial movements worldwide.
All Northern U.S. States Abolish Slavery
By 1804, all northern states in the United States had passed legislation abolishing slavery, though this did not immediately free all enslaved people. Some had to continue working as indentured servants for up to two more decades, and the process of gradual emancipation varied by state. This created a clear geographical division between free and slave states.
1806 CE
Cotton strain brought from Mexico to Natchez
A strain of cotton seed was brought from Mexico to Natchez, Mississippi in 1806, becoming the parent genetic material for 90% of world cotton production. This variety produced bolls three to four times faster to pick, revolutionizing cotton agriculture.
1807 CE
British Parliament Passes Slave Trade Act
The British Parliament passed the Slave Trade Act on March 25, 1807, making the slave trade illegal throughout the British Empire. While this did not immediately free existing slaves, it marked a crucial step toward complete abolition and established Britain as a leader in the international campaign against the slave trade.
1808 CE
United States Outlaws Slave Importation
The United States outlawed the importation of slaves, joining the international movement to end the Atlantic slave trade. However, this law did not affect the domestic slave trade or free existing slaves, and slavery continued to expand westward. The law represented a compromise between anti-slavery and pro-slavery factions.
1809 CE
Daniel Day establishes wool carding mill
Daniel Day established a wool carding mill in the Blackstone Valley at Uxbridge, Massachusetts in 1809, the third woollen mill established in the US. This contributed to the development of America's textile industry in the Blackstone Valley region.
1811 CE
Chile Declares Freedom of Wombs
Chile declared freedom of wombs, meaning that children born to enslaved mothers would be free. This represented an early step toward gradual emancipation in Latin America during the wars of independence. The policy was part of broader liberal reforms implemented by the new republican government.
Luddite movement begins
The Luddite movement began in 1811 with attacks on textile machinery near Nottingham. Unemployed workers, unable to compete with machines, began destroying factories and equipment. The movement spread rapidly before being suppressed by military force.
1812 CE
Gas lighting utilities established in London
The first gas lighting utilities were established in London between 1812 and 1820. Gas lighting allowed factories and stores to remain open longer and enabled nightlife to flourish in cities, fundamentally changing social and industrial organization.
1813 CE
United Provinces of River Plate Enacts Freedom of Wombs
The United Provinces of the River Plate (modern-day Argentina) followed Chile's example by declaring freedom of wombs in 1813. This policy ensured that children born to enslaved mothers would be free, representing a significant step toward gradual emancipation in the region during the independence period.
Samuel Horrocks patents improved loom
Samuel Horrocks patented an improved loom in 1813, which was later enhanced by Richard Roberts in 1822. These looms were produced in large numbers by Roberts, Hill & Co., advancing textile manufacturing efficiency.
1815 CE
Corn Laws enacted in Britain
The Corn Laws were enacted in Britain from 1815-46, imposing tariffs on imported grain to keep prices high for domestic producers. These laws adversely affected food supply and were eventually repealed during the Great Irish Famine.
1816 CE
Safety lamp invented
The safety lamp was invented in 1816 by Sir Humphry Davy, and independently by George Stephenson. This provided some protection against firedamp explosions in coal mines, though the lamps proved problematic and mining remained dangerous.
First macadam road built in Bristol
The first 'macadam' stretch of road was built as Marsh Road at Ashton Gate, Bristol in 1816. This new road construction method, developed by John McAdam, provided better, more durable roads for transportation.
1817 CE
Francis Cabot Lowell dies
Merchant Francis Cabot Lowell died in 1817 after establishing the Boston Manufacturing Company and America's second cotton-to-cloth textile mill at Waltham, Massachusetts. His associates later built America's first planned factory town named after him.
1818 CE
Middletown milling machine developed
The Middletown milling machine was developed around 1818 by Robert Johnson and Simeon North. This advancement in machine tools improved precision manufacturing capabilities and contributed to the development of interchangeable parts production.
1821 CE
Colombia and Venezuela Declare Freedom of Wombs
Colombia and Venezuela implemented freedom of womb laws, continuing the pattern of gradual emancipation across newly independent Latin American republics. These laws were part of the broader liberal agenda of the independence movements, though complete abolition would take several more decades to achieve.
1822 CE
Richard Roberts improves loom design
Richard Roberts improved Samuel Horrocks' loom design in 1822. Roberts was a maker of high-quality machine tools and pioneer in the use of jigs and gauges for precision workshop measurement, advancing manufacturing precision.
1823 CE
Chile Completely Abolishes Slavery
Chile became one of the first Latin American countries to completely abolish slavery, moving beyond the gradual emancipation policies of the previous decade. This decisive action reflected the influence of liberal ideology and the practical needs of building a new republican society based on principles of equality.
First Anti-Slavery Society Founded in Britain
The Society for the Mitigation and Gradual Abolition of Slavery Throughout the British Dominions was founded, marking the revival of the abolitionist movement to campaign against the institution of slavery itself, not just the slave trade. Many members had previously campaigned against the slave trade and now focused on complete emancipation.
First macadam road in US completed
The first macadam road in the U.S., the 'Boonsborough Turnpike Road' between Hagerstown and Boonsboro, Maryland, was completed in 1823. This represented the adoption of British road-building technology in America.
1824 CE
Joseph Aspdin patents portland cement
Joseph Aspdin, a British bricklayer turned builder, patented a chemical process for making portland cement in 1824. This important advance in building trades involved sintering clay and limestone, then grinding it into powder for concrete production.
Combination Act repealed
The Combination Act of 1799, which forbade workers from forming trade unions, was repealed in 1824. This allowed workers to organize, though unions remained severely restricted and were viewed with suspicion by authorities and employers.
1825 CE
France Recognizes Haiti and Imposes Indemnity
France finally recognized Haiti's independence but forced the nation to pay substantial reparations for losses during the revolution. This indemnity, which Haiti could ill afford, became a major cause of the country's enduring poverty and was not fully paid off until 1947. The recognition came with a heavy economic price.
Stockton and Darlington Railway opens
Steam-hauled public railways began with the Stockton and Darlington Railway in 1825. This marked the beginning of the railway age and demonstrated the practical application of steam locomotives for public transportation.
1828 CE
Hot blast development
Hot blast was developed in 1828, dramatically reducing fuel consumption in iron production. The 1828 development of hot blast, combined with other innovations, enabled the rapid expansion of railways by improving iron production capacity and efficiency.
James Beaumont Neilson patents hot blast
Scottish inventor James Beaumont Neilson patented hot blast in 1828, the most important 19th-century development for saving energy in pig iron production. It reduced fuel requirements by one-third using coke or two-thirds using coal.
1829 CE
Rainhill Trials demonstrate locomotive success
The Rainhill Trials in 1829 demonstrated Robert Stephenson's successful locomotive design. These trials proved the viability of steam locomotives and led to the rapid introduction of railways across Britain and beyond.
1830 CE
Belgium becomes independent
Belgium became independent in 1830, and especially after independence, factories comprising coke blast furnaces as well as puddling and rolling mills were built in coal mining areas around Liège and Charleroi, making Belgium the second country to industrialize.
Captain Swing disturbances affect southern Britain
The Captain Swing disturbances affected large parts of southern Britain in the 1830s as agricultural laborers protested industrialization. Threshing machines were particular targets, and hayrick burning was common, leading to the formation of trade unions.
Penny dreadfuls created
Penny dreadfuls were created in the 1830s to meet demand for cheap literature for the masses. These publications were 'Britain's first taste of mass-produced popular culture for the young' and 'the Victorian equivalent of video games.'
Major railway construction begins
Construction of major railways connecting larger cities and towns began in the 1830s, though it only gained momentum at the very end of the first Industrial Revolution. This marked the beginning of the railway boom that would transform transportation.
Liverpool and Manchester Railway opens
The Liverpool and Manchester Railway opened on September 15, 1830, becoming the first inter-city railway in the world. Engineered by Joseph Locke and George Stephenson, it linked Manchester with Liverpool and became highly successful, sparking Railway Mania.
1832 CE
Chance Brothers use cylinder process for sheet glass
In 1832, the Chance Brothers used the cylinder process to create sheet glass, becoming leading producers of window and plate glass. This advancement allowed larger panes without interruption, revolutionizing architecture and interior design.
Reform Act extends voting rights
The Reform Act of 1832 extended voting rights in Britain, though it did not grant universal suffrage. This political reform was part of broader social changes accompanying industrialization, though working-class representation remained limited.
1833 CE
Slavery Abolition Act Passed in Britain
The British Parliament passed the Slavery Abolition Act on August 28, 1833, which purchased slaves from their masters and paved the way for the abolition of slavery throughout the British Empire by 1838. This landmark legislation represented the culmination of decades of abolitionist campaigning and established Britain as a global leader in emancipation.
First Factory Acts passed
The first general laws against child labor, the Factory Acts, were passed in Britain in 1833. Children younger than nine were prohibited from working, night work was banned for children, and working hours for those under 18 were limited to 12 hours.
1834 CE
Tolpuddle Martyrs transported to Australia
Six men from Tolpuddle in Dorset, who founded the Friendly Society of Agricultural Labourers, were arrested, found guilty, and transported to Australia in 1834. They became known as the Tolpuddle Martyrs and symbolized early labor organization struggles.
1836 CE
Charles Dickens publishes The Pickwick Papers
Charles Dickens published The Pickwick Papers in 1836, which became a phenomenon and sparked spin-offs and merchandise. Dickens used innovations of the era including new printing presses, enhanced advertising, and railways to sell books, defining modern entertainment.
1837 CE
Elijah Parish Lovejoy Murdered by Pro-Slavery Mob
Abolitionist newspaper editor Elijah Parish Lovejoy was murdered by a pro-slavery mob in Alton, Illinois, on November 7, 1837. His death was covered in newspapers nationwide and caused a significant rise in membership in abolitionist societies. Lovejoy became a martyr for the anti-slavery cause and galvanized Northern opposition to slavery.
Jérôme-Adolphe Blanqui describes Industrial Revolution
Jérôme-Adolphe Blanqui provided a description of the Industrial Revolution in 1837, helping to popularize the term. His work contributed to the growing recognition and understanding of the economic transformation occurring across Europe.
1839 CE
British and Foreign Anti-Slavery Society Founded
Joseph Sturge founded the British and Foreign Anti-Slavery Society, which attempted to outlaw slavery worldwide and pressure the government to help enforce the suppression of the slave trade. This organization, which continues today as Anti-Slavery International, became the world's oldest international human rights organization.
1840 CE
World Anti-Slavery Convention Held in London
The British and Foreign Anti-Slavery Society organized the World Anti-Slavery Convention at Exeter Hall in London from June 12-23, 1840. This was the first international attempt to address the abolition of slavery, bringing together delegates from around the world. Thomas Clarkson was the key speaker at this historic gathering.
Industrial Revolution spreads to continental Europe and US
By about 1840, the Industrial Revolution had spread from Great Britain to continental Europe and the United States. This marked the global expansion of industrialization beyond its British origins, transforming economies worldwide.
Uniform Penny Post introduced
The Uniform Penny Post was introduced in 1840 with the invention of the postage stamp (Penny Black), charging one penny for carriage between any two places in the UK. This revolutionized communication and enabled mail order business development.
Electrical telegraph widely introduced
The electrical telegraph was widely introduced in the 1840s in the UK and US. While this new technology improved communication, it was not sufficient alone to drive high rates of economic growth during this period.
1842 CE
General strike organized through Chartist movement
In 1842, a general strike involving cotton workers and colliers was organized through the Chartist movement, stopping production across Britain. This demonstrated the growing power of organized labor and working-class political movements.
Laws improve mine working conditions
Laws passed in 1842 and 1844 improved mine working conditions in Britain. The employment of children and women in mining was forbidden, and other safety measures were implemented to address the dangerous conditions in coal mines.
1843 CE
Wallachia and Moldavia Begin Roma Emancipation
The principalities of Wallachia and Moldavia began the process of emancipating all 250,000 enslaved Roma people between 1843 and 1855. This progressive pro-European and anti-Ottoman movement worked systematically to abolish the legal slavery of the Roma population, representing a significant human rights achievement in Eastern Europe.
Thames Tunnel opens
The Thames Tunnel opened in 1843, becoming the world's first underwater tunnel. English engineer Marc Isambard Brunel used portland cement concrete in its construction, demonstrating new engineering capabilities and construction materials.
1844 CE
Friedrich Engels publishes working class conditions
Friedrich Engels published 'The Condition of the Working Class in England' in 1844, describing the poor living conditions in industrial cities. This influential work exposed the harsh realities of industrial life and contributed to socialist thought.
Additional Factory Act passed
An additional Factory Act was passed in 1844, further restricting child labor and improving working conditions. These laws built upon the 1833 Factory Act to provide better protection for young workers in industrial settings.
1845 CE
R. White's Lemonade begins operations
R. White's Lemonade, a soft drinks company, began in 1845 by selling drinks in London from a wheelbarrow. This represents the growth of new consumer industries and street commerce during the Industrial Revolution.
1847 CE
Fry's produces first chocolate bar
Fry's of Bristol produced the first chocolate bar in 1847. This innovation in confectionery represented the transformation of luxury goods into mass-produced items affordable to broader segments of the population during industrialization.
1848 CE
Denmark Abolishes Slavery in West Indies
Denmark finally abolished slavery in the Danish West Indies in 1848, completing the process that began with the 1792 decree to end the slave trade. This action eliminated one of the last remaining European slave systems in the Caribbean and demonstrated the continuing international pressure for complete emancipation.
France Permanently Abolishes Slavery
Under the Second Republic, France permanently abolished slavery in its remaining colonies on April 27, 1848, through a decree-law written by Victor Schœlcher. The state purchased the slaves from the colonists and then freed them, ensuring that this abolition would be permanent and comprehensive across all French territories.
Stock company law enacted in Sweden
A stock company law was enacted in Sweden in 1848, representing important institutional changes that supported industrialization. This legal framework facilitated business formation and investment in industrial enterprises.
1850 CE
Music halls develop in urban areas
Music halls developed in the 1850s as urbanization created new communities cut off from cultural roots, requiring new and accessible forms of entertainment. This represented the cultural adaptation to industrial urban life.
Sweden abolishes trade monopolies and joins gold standard
Sweden abolished most tariffs and barriers to free trade in the 1850s and joined the gold standard in 1873. These economic reforms supported Sweden's industrial development and integration into the global economy.
Waltham-Lowell system replaced by immigrant labor
By 1850, especially following the Great Famine of Ireland, the utopia-like Waltham-Lowell system was replaced by poor immigrant labor. This marked a significant change in American industrial labor practices and working conditions.
1851 CE
Colombia Abolishes Slavery
Colombia completely abolished slavery in 1851, moving beyond the gradual emancipation policies implemented during the independence period. This decisive action reflected the growing influence of liberal ideology and international pressure for complete emancipation throughout Latin America.
Great Exhibition held at Crystal Palace
The Great Exhibition was held at the Crystal Palace in 1851, showcasing industrial achievements and innovations. The Crystal Palace itself demonstrated new construction techniques using sheet glass and iron, symbolizing industrial progress.
1853 CE
Argentina Abolishes Slavery
Argentina abolished slavery with the signing of the Argentine Constitution of 1853, completing the gradual emancipation process that began during the independence period. This constitutional provision ensured that slavery would be permanently prohibited throughout the Argentine Republic.
1854 CE
Peru Abolishes Slavery
Peru abolished slavery in 1854, joining the growing number of Latin American republics that had eliminated the institution. This action was part of the broader liberal reforms sweeping across the region and reflected the influence of international abolitionist movements on Latin American politics.
Venezuela Abolishes Slavery
José Gregorio Monagas abolished slavery in Venezuela in 1854, completing the emancipation process that began with freedom of womb laws in 1821. This action eliminated one of the last remaining slave systems in northern South America and demonstrated the continuing influence of liberal ideology in the region.
John Snow traces cholera outbreak
In 1854, John Snow traced a cholera outbreak in Soho, London to fecal contamination of a public water well. His finding that cholera could be spread by contaminated water led to fundamental changes in public water and waste system design.
Watch industry industrialization begins
The industrialization of the watch industry started in 1854 in Waltham, Massachusetts, at the Waltham Watch Company. This involved developing machine tools, gauges and assembling methods adapted to the micro precision required for watches.
1855 CE
Wallachia and Moldavia Complete Roma Emancipation
The principalities of Wallachia and Moldavia completed the emancipation of all 250,000 enslaved Roma people by 1855. This systematic process, which began in 1843, represented one of the most comprehensive ethnic emancipation programs in European history and eliminated a centuries-old system of Roma bondage.
Metropolitan Board of Works begins London sewer system
The Metropolitan Board of Works, led by chief engineer Joseph Bazalgette, began construction of the modern sewage system in London in 1855. This massive public health project addressed sanitary conditions brought on by industrialization and urbanization.
1859 CE
London sewer system construction begins
The London sewer system began construction in 1859, including 82 miles of main sewers and 1,100 miles of street sewers. This revolutionary system diverted waste to the Thames Estuary and by the 1890s featured biological treatment of sewage.
1860 CE
Germany takes leadership in chemical industry
After 1860, the focus on chemical innovation shifted to dyestuffs, and Germany took leadership, building a strong chemical industry. Aspiring chemists flocked to German universities to learn the latest techniques, while British scientists lacked research universities.
Fish and chip shops first appear
In the 1860s, fish and chip shops first appeared to satisfy the needs of the growing industrial population. This represents the development of new food industries and urban dining culture during industrialization.
Henry Bessemer invents steel furnace
Henry Bessemer invented a new furnace in the 1860s that could convert molten pig iron into steel in large quantities. This innovation marked the beginning of the Second Industrial Revolution and mass steel production, though it only became widely available in the 1870s.
1861 CE
Russia Emancipates the Serfs
Russia emancipated its serfs in 1861, ending centuries of feudal bondage for millions of peasants. This major social reform was implemented by Tsar Alexander II and represented one of the largest emancipation programs in history, though it failed to fully address rural and industrial unrest that would contribute to future revolutions.
Pryce Pryce-Jones forms first mail order business
Welsh entrepreneur Pryce Pryce-Jones formed the first mail order business in 1861, selling Welsh flannel through catalogues. Customers could order by mail and goods were delivered via the railway system, revolutionizing retail.
1862 CE
District of Columbia Compensated Emancipation Act
Abraham Lincoln signed the District of Columbia Compensated Emancipation Act on April 16, 1862, abolishing slavery in Washington D.C. This act provided compensation to slave owners and represented the first federal legislation to free slaves in the United States, setting a precedent for broader emancipation measures.
Second Confiscation Act Frees Rebel-Owned Slaves
Congress passed the second Confiscation Act on July 17, 1862, stating that escaped or liberated slaves belonging to anyone who participated in or supported the rebellion 'shall be deemed captives of war, and shall be forever free of their servitude.' This act significantly expanded the scope of emancipation during the Civil War.
1863 CE
Lincoln Issues Emancipation Proclamation
Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863, changing the legal status of 3 million slaves in the Confederacy from 'slave' to 'free.' Though limited in scope, this executive order transformed the Civil War into a war for freedom and allowed freed slaves to join the Union army.
Britain's Alkali Act regulates air pollution
Britain's Alkali Act of 1863 was passed to regulate air pollution from the Leblanc process used to produce soda ash. This was among the first large-scale modern environmental laws, with alkali inspectors appointed to curb pollution.
1864 CE
Maryland Abolishes Slavery
The state of Maryland abolished slavery on October 13, 1864, as part of the broader emancipation process during the American Civil War. Maryland was one of the border states that remained in the Union but maintained slavery until state-level abolition measures were implemented.
1865 CE
Missouri Abolishes Slavery
Missouri abolished slavery on January 11, 1865, eliminating bondage in another border state that had remained in the Union during the Civil War. This action preceded the ratification of the 13th Amendment and demonstrated the momentum toward complete emancipation throughout the United States.
West Virginia Fully Abolishes Slavery
West Virginia, which had been admitted to the Union in 1863 as a slave state with the condition of gradual emancipation, fully abolished slavery on February 3, 1865. This action completed the emancipation process in the state and eliminated slavery in another border region.
Juneteenth - Union Army Liberates Texas Slaves
On June 19, 1865, known as 'Juneteenth,' the Union Army gained control of Texas and liberated the last enslaved people in the Confederacy. This date became a symbol of emancipation and is now celebrated as a federal holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States.
13th Amendment Ratified
The 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution took effect in December 1865, finally ending slavery for non-criminals throughout the United States. The amendment also abolished slavery among Indian tribes and represented the constitutional culmination of the American abolitionist movement, though it included an exception for punishment of crime.
1867 CE
Reform Act extends franchise
The Reform Act of 1867 extended the franchise in Britain, allowing trades unions to begin supporting socialist parties after achieving effective political organization. This political reform enabled greater working-class representation.
Austria-Hungary formed
The Habsburg realms became Austria-Hungary in 1867. The empire had grown from 23 million people in 1800 to 36 million by 1870, with industrial development varying across regions but accelerating after this political reorganization.
1868 CE
Cadbury produces heart-shaped chocolate box
Cadbury of Birmingham produced a heart-shaped box of chocolates for Valentine's Day in 1868, becoming the first to commercialize the association between confectionery and romance. This represents the development of modern marketing and consumer culture.
1870 CE
Meiji period begins in Japan
The Industrial Revolution began in Japan around 1870 as Meiji period leaders decided to catch up with the West. The government built railways, improved roads, inaugurated land reform, and established a Western-based education system.
Parliament official emphasizes education importance
A senior government official told Parliament in 1870 that industrial prosperity depended on elementary education provision. This recognition of education's role in industrial competitiveness led to increased investment in public schooling.
Rapid growth resumes after 1870
Rapid economic growth resumed after 1870, driven by new innovations of the Second Industrial Revolution. These included steel-making processes, mass production, assembly lines, electrical grid systems, and large-scale manufacture of machine tools.
Steel becomes widely available
Steel became widely available in the 1870s after the Bessemer process was modified to produce more uniform quality. This marked the true beginning of the steel age and the Second Industrial Revolution's impact on construction and manufacturing.
1871 CE
Iwakura Mission tours Europe and US
In 1871, the Iwakura Mission, a group of Japanese politicians, toured Europe and the US to learn Western ways. This resulted in a deliberate state-led industrialization policy to enable Japan to quickly catch up with Western industrial powers.
German unification stimulates railway growth
German unification in 1871 stimulated consolidation, nationalization into state-owned companies, and further rapid railway growth. Unlike France, the goal was supporting industrialization with heavy lines crisscrossing the Ruhr and connecting major ports.
1873 CE
Puerto Rico Abolishes Slavery
Puerto Rico abolished slavery in 1873, eliminating bondage in one of the last Spanish Caribbean colonies to maintain the institution. This action was part of Spain's gradual retreat from slavery in its remaining colonial territories and reflected growing international pressure for complete emancipation.
Sweden joins gold standard
Sweden joined the gold standard in 1873, completing economic reforms that included abolishing trade barriers in the 1850s. This monetary policy supported Sweden's integration into the global economy and industrial development.
1875 CE
Public Health Act requires smoke consumption
The Public Health Act of 1875 required all furnaces and fireplaces to consume their smoke and provided sanctions against factories emitting large amounts of black smoke. This environmental legislation addressed industrial pollution concerns.
1881 CE
Arnold Toynbee popularizes Industrial Revolution term
Arnold Toynbee's 1881 lectures gave a detailed account of the Industrial Revolution term, and he is credited with its popularization. His academic work helped establish the concept as a recognized historical period and phenomenon.
1882 CE
Bank of Japan founded
The Bank of Japan was founded in 1882, using taxes to fund model steel and textile factories. This state-led approach to industrialization helped Japan rapidly develop modern industry and catch up with Western industrial powers.
1885 CE
Further franchise extension
The franchise was extended again in 1885, allowing trades unions to support socialist parties that eventually merged to become the British Labour Party. This political development gave working people greater representation in government.
1886 CE
Cuba Abolishes Slavery
Cuba abolished slavery in 1886, eliminating bondage in one of the last major slave societies in the Americas. The abolition came after years of gradual emancipation policies and represented the end of Spanish colonial slavery in the Caribbean, leaving only Brazil as the final holdout in the Western Hemisphere.
1888 CE
Brazil Abolishes Slavery - Last in the Americas
Brazil abolished slavery in 1888 with the Lei Áurea (Golden Law), becoming the last country in the Americas to outlaw the institution. This action eliminated the largest slave system in the Western Hemisphere and marked the complete end of legal slavery in the Americas, concluding nearly four centuries of Atlantic slavery.
1890 CE
Brussels Conference Act Addresses Global Slavery
The Brussels Anti-Slavery Conference concluded with the Brussels Conference Act of 1890, representing the first major international governmental effort to address slavery on a semi-global level. The conference brought together representatives of colonial powers to coordinate anti-slavery efforts and establish international protocols.
Electricity and electrification revolution begins
By the 1890s, a new revolution began with electricity and electrification in the electrical industries. This marked another phase of the Second Industrial Revolution, transforming power generation and industrial applications.
First giant industrial corporations emerge
By the 1890s, industrialization had created the first giant industrial corporations with global interests. Companies like U.S. Steel, General Electric, Standard Oil and Bayer AG joined railroad and ship companies on world stock markets.
1894 CE
Manchester Ship Canal opens
The Manchester Ship Canal opened in 1894, becoming the world's largest ship canal and opening Manchester as a port. However, it never achieved commercial success and signaled canals as a dying transport mode in the railway age.
1898 CE
Coal Smoke Abatement Society formed
The Coal Smoke Abatement Society was formed in Britain in 1898, founded by artist William Blake Richmond who was frustrated with pollution from coal smoke. This environmental organization worked to address industrial air pollution.
1905 CE
France Abolishes Slavery in West Africa
France abolished slavery in most of French West Africa in 1905, though the abolition was not strictly enforced and some territories continued practicing slavery until later dates. This action was part of France's broader colonial policy but faced practical challenges in implementation across diverse African societies.
Growth renewal after 1905
Economic growth renewed after 1905 according to Maurice Lévy-Leboyer's analysis of French industrialization. This marked the end of the economic slowdown period (1860-1905) and the beginning of renewed industrial expansion.
1924 CE
League of Nations Establishes Temporary Slavery Commission
The League of Nations founded the Temporary Slavery Commission (TSC) in 1924 to conduct a global investigation of slavery and slave trade worldwide. This commission represented the first systematic international effort to document and address slavery on a global scale, leading to important international treaties.
1926 CE
1926 Slavery Convention Adopted
The 1926 Slavery Convention was adopted based on the investigation of the Temporary Slavery Commission, representing a turning point in banning global slavery. This international treaty established legal frameworks for combating slavery worldwide and created binding obligations for signatory nations to eliminate the institution.
1930 CE
Industrial development continues to 1930
From 1890 to 1930, new industries developed focusing on domestic markets including mechanical engineering, power utilities, papermaking and textile. This period saw the maturation of industrial economies and diversification of manufacturing.
1932 CE
League Forms Committee of Experts on Slavery
The League of Nations formed the Committee of Experts on Slavery (CES) in 1932 to review the results and enforcement of the 1926 Slavery Convention. This committee conducted new international investigations and led to the establishment of the first permanent slavery committee, demonstrating continued international commitment to abolition.
1934 CE
Advisory Committee of Experts on Slavery Established
The Advisory Committee of Experts on Slavery (ACE) was established in 1934 as the first permanent international slavery committee. Between 1934 and 1939, the ACE conducted major international investigations on slavery and slave trade, inspecting all colonial empires and territories under their control.
1948 CE
UN Universal Declaration Bans Slavery
Article 4 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted in 1948 by the UN General Assembly, explicitly banned slavery worldwide. This declaration established slavery prohibition as a fundamental human right and created the moral and legal foundation for modern anti-slavery efforts.
1950 CE
UN Ad Hoc Committee on Slavery Inaugurated
The Ad Hoc Committee on Slavery of the United Nations was inaugurated in February 1950, continuing the investigation of global slavery conducted by the League of Nations. This committee worked to develop new international instruments to combat slavery and ultimately led to the 1956 Supplementary Convention.
1956 CE
UN Supplementary Convention on Abolition of Slavery
The United Nations 1956 Supplementary Convention on the Abolition of Slavery was convened to outlaw and ban slavery worldwide, including child slavery. This comprehensive treaty expanded the definition of slavery and created stronger international mechanisms for enforcement and cooperation in anti-slavery efforts.
1962 CE
Saudi Arabia and Yemen Abolish Slavery
In November 1962, Faisal of Saudi Arabia prohibited the owning of slaves, followed by the abolition of slavery in Yemen in 1962. These actions eliminated some of the last legal slave systems in the world and marked the end of institutional chattel slavery in most of the Arabian Peninsula.
1963 CE
Dubai Abolishes Slavery
Dubai abolished slavery in 1963, continuing the process of eliminating the last legal slave systems in the Arabian Peninsula. This action was part of the broader modernization efforts in the Gulf region and international pressure to end all forms of legal bondage.
1966 CE
International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights
The UN General Assembly adopted the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights in December 1966, with Article 4 banning slavery. The treaty came into force in March 1976 after ratification by 35 nations and created binding legal obligations for states to prohibit slavery and ensure civil rights.
1970 CE
Oman Abolishes Slavery
Oman abolished slavery in 1970, becoming one of the last countries in the world to legally end the institution. This action eliminated one of the final remaining legal slave systems and marked the near-complete global abolition of institutional chattel slavery, with only a few countries remaining.
1981 CE
Mauritania Officially Abolishes Slavery
Mauritania became the latest country to officially abolish slavery with a presidential decree in 1981, making it the last country in the world to legally prohibit the institution. However, slavery continues to persist illegally in Mauritania, with estimates suggesting that up to 20% of the population remains enslaved.
2000 CE
United States Passes Trafficking Victims Protection Act
The United States passed the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act (TVPA) in 2000 'to combat trafficking in persons, especially into the sex trade, slavery, and involuntary servitude.' The TVPA created new law enforcement tools and made human trafficking a federal crime with severe penalties.
2001 CE
France Recognizes Slavery as Crime Against Humanity
The Taubira law, passed on May 10, 2001, officially acknowledged slavery and the Atlantic slave trade as a crime against humanity in France. May 10 was chosen as the day dedicated to recognition of the crime of slavery, establishing an annual commemoration and formal acknowledgment of historical injustices.
2004 CE
UN Declares International Year Against Slavery
The United Nations General Assembly declared 2004 the International Year to Commemorate the Struggle against Slavery and its Abolition, marking the bicentenary of Haiti's independence. This proclamation led to numerous exhibitions, events, and research programs worldwide to commemorate abolitionist movements.
2014 CE
Religious Leaders Unite Against Modern Slavery
For the first time in history, major Anglican, Catholic, and Orthodox Christian leaders, as well as Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, and Buddhist leaders, met in 2014 to sign a shared commitment against modern-day slavery. Their declaration called for the elimination of slavery and human trafficking by 2020.
2018 CE
Colorado Removes Prison Labor Exception
In 2018, Colorado became the first state to remove language in its state constitution allowing slavery 'as punishment for crime' through a legislatively referred ballot referendum. This action began a movement to eliminate the 13th Amendment's exception for prison labor from state constitutions across the United States.
