The Society for Effecting the Abolition of the Slave Trade was formed in London in 1787 by a group of twelve men, predominantly Quakers. The Society worked to inform the public about the abuses of the slave trade through publishing books and pamphlets, organising lectures and rallies and presenting petitions to the House of Commons. An emblem featuring a kneeling man in chains and the question 'Am I Not a Man and a Brother?' was produced on Wedgwood pottery medallions and then on other articles and increased awareness of the abolition campaign.

In 1807 the British Parliament voted to abolish the international slave trade and the Society was superseded by the Anti-Slavery Society, founded in 1823 to campaign for the abolition of the institution of slavery throughout the British Empire.