An examination of the abolition of slavery in 1863, a major historical watershed. It recounts the chain of events leading up to this event, and the repercussions, both immediate and long-term. It also evaluates the concept of a turning point, assessing in what way this event really was one. The volume is designed to be thought-provoking, but its approach is direct and seeks to embrace the views of ordinary people. It ties in with the National Curriculum and features photographs, reproductions of source materials, eyewitness boxes, and a glossary and index.