How Liberating the Slaves also Clothed the Poor

Early in the 19th century, the abolition of the slave trade in British-ruled colonies led to a surge in demand among former slaves for high-quality clothing. At first, the demand was met with send-hand clothing, but soon manufacturers developed cheaper cloth for stylish but affordable new garments, benefiting not just former slaves but ordinary people worldwide.

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Liberty and Prosperity (141) Samuel Sidney (2) Textile Industry (5) Abolition of Slavery (26) Free Trade and Markets (27) Victorian Era (106) British History (377) History (777)

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