The movement that sought to abolish slavery in the United States during the 19th century is known as the abolitionist movement. This grassroots campaign evolved throughout the early to mid-1800s, gathering momentum as activists worked to end the institution of slavery and promote equal rights for African Americans. Prominent figures like Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman, and William Lloyd Garrison emerged as crucial advocates for the cause, employing various methods such as speeches, publications, and underground railroad networks. The movement significantly influenced public opinion and played a vital role in the events leading up to the Civil War and the eventual emancipation of enslaved individuals.