Society for the Education of Africans facts for kids
The Society for the Education of Africans was an English group that worked to end slavery. It helped educate the sons of important African families in the early 1800s.
This Society was led by a group called the Clapham Sect. They started the African Academy in Clapham, England, in 1799. Soon, 20 boys and 4 girls arrived in Portsmouth from Freetown, Sierra Leone. They were looked after by Zachary Macaulay. The Society also worked closely with the Church Mission Society, which also began in 1799.
Helping African Students Learn
The idea for the Society first came from John Campbell. In 1796, he wrote down his thoughts. He wondered if they could bring people from Africa to England. There, they could get an education. Some might even become Christian and return to Africa. Even if not, they could still help spread civilization. This way, their efforts would not be wasted.
How the Idea Began
John Campbell first planned to open the school in Edinburgh, Scotland. He talked about his idea with friends there, and they liked it. Then, he shared his proposal with members of the Clapham Sect. Both William Wilberforce and Henry Thornton approved of the plan.
However, when Campbell discussed more details with Charles Grant, Grant suggested waiting. He thought the plan should be put off until after the war with France ended. Campbell then spoke to Robert Haldane, a kind person who helped others. Haldane agreed to pay for the school.
