Sophia Sturge (abolitionist) facts for kids

Sophia Sturge (born August 17, 1795 – died June 6, 1845) was a British activist. She worked hard to end slavery in the United Kingdom. She lived in Birmingham, England. Sophia started a group called the "Birmingham Ladies Society for the Relief of Negro Slaves". This group helped fight against slavery. She also spent a lot of time helping her brother, Joseph Sturge. He was a very important leader in the fight to end slavery in the UK.

Sophia's Early Life

Sophia was born in Elberton, Gloucestershire, in 1795. She was the fifth of twelve children. Her father, Joseph Sturge, was a farmer. Her mother, Mary Marshall, was a member of the Religious Society of Friends (also known as Quakers). Quakers are a Christian group known for their peaceful beliefs.

Sophia had many brothers and sisters. Her brothers included John Sturge and Edmund Sturge. Her older brother, Joseph Sturge, became a famous leader against slavery. Charles Gilpin was her nephew. Sophia and her siblings were taught by tutors at home. They also learned a lot by writing letters to each other. Sophia loved to read and discuss ideas through letters. She went to a school in Wellington for a short time, but she did not enjoy it much.

Fighting for Freedom

In 1815, Sophia moved to Edgbaston to help her brother Joseph. She became his housekeeper. She even worked as a bookkeeper for his business for a while. Sophia greatly admired Joseph. He became one of the most important people fighting to end slavery.

In 1834, Joseph got married, and Sophia left to work as a governess. But she returned the next year when Joseph's wife passed away. Sophia stayed at his house and became his personal assistant and adviser.

At that time, there was a big discussion about how to end slavery. Many people thought slavery should end slowly. But Sophia and Joseph believed it should stop quickly and completely. Sophia created the "Birmingham Ladies Society for the Relief of Negro Slaves." Even though it was based in Birmingham, this group had a big impact across the country. Sophia even asked 3,000 households to stop buying sugar. This was because sugar was often made by enslaved people.

Sophia's Legacy

Sophia Sturge passed away in Edgbaston in 1845. Her brother Joseph took care of her during her final illness.

The year after Sophia died, Joseph married again. His first child was named Sophia Sturge, just like his sister. This younger Sophia also grew up to be an important activist. She became a leading campaigner for peace.