Wilberforce Was 21

"Amazing grace! How sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me."

The beloved hymn "Amazing Grace" reflects the spiritual journey of John Newton, a former slave trader whose life was transformed by faith and who later became a Christian clergyman. His story intersects with William Wilberforce, a young British politician who entered Parliament at just 21 and devoted his career to a decades-long fight to end the British slave trade.

The 2006 film Amazing Grace brings this pivotal chapter of history to life, tracing Wilberforce’s moral awakening, political struggles, and partnership with fellow abolitionists as they challenge entrenched interests and fight for the passage of the Slave Trade Act of 1807.

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Taylor University is partnering with Walden Media to share a remastered version of this inspiring film—and to affirm a belief at the heart of a Taylor education: our students are capable of making an extraordinary difference in the world.

Many Taylor students are the same age Wilberforce was when he entered Parliament. His story reminds us that age is no barrier to meaningful impact. We believe our students are called and equipped to lead with courage, live out their faith, and help shape a better world.

We invite you to watch and share the remastered version of Amazing Grace with family and friends. Together, let’s rediscover the extraordinary story of one man’s fight against injustice.

Watch Amazing Grace

Amazing Grace is a historical drama about British politician William Wilberforce who entered Parliament at the age of 21, and his long campaign to end the slave trade in the British Empire. The film follows his moral conviction, political setbacks, and alliance with fellow abolitionists as they fight to pass the Slave Trade Act of 1807. 

This remastered version of Amazing Grace is available to stream for free.

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Taylor Students React

  • William Wilberforce was just 21 when he entered Parliament. His story reminds us that faith, purpose, and the courage to take action aren't limited by age.

  • William Wilberforce chose to confront injustice and challenge the world around him.

  • Despite years of opposition and setbacks, he refused to quit.

  • Sometimes following God's purpose means setting aside the noise and focusing on what matters most.

  • Real change takes time. Start where you are. Speak up for what matters. And don't back down just because it's hard.

  • Amazing Grace is a reminder that you don’t have to wait until you’re “older” or “ready” to stand for what’s right.

  • The Lord gave Wilberforce the conviction to take on the slave trade, no matter the cost.