Sharp, Granville (1735-1813), was a leader of the movement for the abolition of slavery in the United Kingdom. In 1772, his efforts resulted in the legal decision that as soon as any enslaved person set foot on British territory, that person became free. His proposal of a colony for enslaved people who had gained their freedom was put into effect in Sierra Leone in 1787. Sharp also campaigned against press gangs (forced military service). In 1804, he helped found the British and Foreign Bible Society.
Sharp was born in Durham, England, on Nov. 10, 1735. He died on July 6, 1813.
