Description:
(British Sailor and Anglican Clergyman)
A man who experienced a spiritual conversion aboard a ship, John Newton co-authored one of the greatest hymns of faith, ‘Amazing Grace', which had an impeccable influence on English hymnology. He was a skillful preacher and dedicated theologian and played a crucial and significant role in the evangelical movement. He supported his dear friend, William Wilberforce, who campaigned against slavery and thus served as an abolitionist. Even though he himself was involved in slave trade for a certain period in his lifetime and captained many slave ships, he later became an abolitionist of slavery. He began his career in the sea at a very young age and was abused and tortured as a slave for some time in his life, after which he was rescued. He was also the author of the hymn, 'Glorious Things of Thee are Spoken'. His legacy continues to live as he is portrayed in many works of art, like films, novels and plays.
Birthday
July 24, 1725 (Leo)
City
London, England
Died on
December 21, 1807
Spouse/Ex-
Mary Catlett
Parents
John Newton Sr.
Elizabeth Newton
When did John Newton write the hymn
John Newton wrote the hymn "Amazing Grace" in 1772.
What was John Newton's occupation before becoming a clergyman?
Before becoming a clergyman, John Newton was a slave trader.
How did John Newton's experience as a slave trader influence his later life?
John Newton's experience as a slave trader led to his conversion to Christianity and his eventual advocacy for the abolition of the slave trade.
Where did John Newton serve as a minister later in his life?
John Newton served as a minister at St. Mary Woolnoth Church in London.
What is the significance of John Newton's life and work in the context of the abolitionist movement?
John Newton's personal transformation from a slave trader to an abolitionist and his influential writings played a key role in the abolitionist movement in the 18th century.
