Ralph Wardlaw facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Ralph Wardlaw
|
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Born | 22 December 1779 Dalkeith
|
| Died | 15 December 1853 (aged 73) |
| Resting place | Glasgow Necropolis |
| Alma mater | University of Glasgow |
| Occupation | Clergyman and writer |
| Spouse(s) | Jane Smith |
Ralph Wardlaw (born December 22, 1779 – died December 15, 1853) was an important Scottish minister and writer. He is best known for fighting against slavery. He was a strong voice for freedom and justice.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Ralph Wardlaw was born in Dalkeith, a town near Edinburgh, Scotland. When he was just six months old, his family moved to Glasgow. His father was a successful merchant and a local leader. His mother came from a family of important church ministers.
When he was eight years old, Ralph started school at the High School of Glasgow. He studied there for four years. At only twelve years old, he was accepted into the University of Glasgow. There, he began studying to become a minister.
Becoming a Minister
Ralph Wardlaw's family had strong ties to the Secession Church. However, after finishing his university studies, he chose a different path. He joined the Independent Congregationalism movement. This style of church was new to Scotland, brought over from England.
In 1803, Ralph became an ordained minister. His friends and family helped build a church for him in Albion Street. At first, his church had only 61 members. But he was a very good speaker. His sermons were popular. By 1811, he helped start Glasgow's first school for students studying to become Congregationalist ministers.
In 1818, his church moved to a new building on West George Street. This new church was much bigger. It could hold more than 1,500 people. Ralph stayed there for the rest of his life as a minister. In the same year, he received an honorary degree from Yale University in the United States.
Fighting Against Slavery
Ralph Wardlaw was a strong abolitionist. This means he believed that slavery was wrong and should be ended. He spoke out against slavery many times. His powerful messages inspired many people.
One person he greatly influenced was David Livingstone. Livingstone was a famous Scottish missionary and explorer. He attended Wardlaw's lectures about religion. Wardlaw's fight against slavery inspired Livingstone. Later, Livingstone spent many years in Africa. He worked hard to fight the African slave trade there.
Later Life and Legacy
Ralph Wardlaw was married to his cousin, Jane Smith. They were together for almost fifty years. He passed away at his home near Baillieston in 1853. He was 74 years old.
Ralph Wardlaw is buried in the Glasgow Necropolis. This is a large cemetery on a hill. His grave overlooks Glasgow Cathedral. He is remembered for his dedication to his faith and his important work against slavery.
Sources
- "Significant Scots: Ralph Wardlaw", Electric Scotland
