Frederick Chesson facts for kids

Frederick William Chesson (born in 1833, died on April 29, 1888) was an English journalist and a very important campaigner against slavery. He worked hard with groups like the Aborigines' Protection Society and the Emancipation Committee in London. He even met Harriet Jacobs, a famous writer and former slave, when she visited England in 1858. Chesson was a strong supporter of the Union (the North) during the American Civil War.

Who Was Frederick Chesson?

Frederick William Chesson was born in England in 1833. He grew up to become a journalist, which means he wrote for newspapers and magazines. But he was also a passionate activist. An activist is someone who works to bring about social or political change.

Fighting Against Slavery

Chesson spent much of his life fighting against slavery. This movement was called "abolitionism." Abolitionists believed that slavery was wrong and should be ended everywhere. He was a key member of the London Aborigines' Protection Society, which worked to protect the rights of native peoples around the world. He was also part of the Emancipation Committee, another group focused on freeing enslaved people.

Supporting the Union in America

When the American Civil War began in 1861, Chesson strongly supported the Union side. The Union was fighting to keep the United States together and eventually to end slavery. In 1859, Chesson and his wife's father, George Thompson, started the London Emancipation Society. This group worked to show support for the Union in England.

Family Life and Other Work

In 1855, Frederick Chesson married Amelia Thompson. Her father, George Thompson, was also a well-known activist who fought against slavery. Besides his anti-slavery work, Chesson also wrote about other important people. For example, he wrote about Richard Cobden, a famous British politician and reformer.

Where to Learn More

• Thompson Chesson Scrapbooks From the Rare Book and Special Collections Division at the Library of Congress