The main beliefs held by abolitionists in the 19th century centered around the immediate end of slavery and the promotion of equal rights for African Americans. Abolitionists argued that slavery was a profound moral evil and a violation of human rights. They employed various tactics to advocate for emancipation, including writing, lectures, and organizing grassroots campaigns. Prominent figures such as Frederick Douglass and Harriet Tubman became national symbols of the movement. The movement also intersected with women's rights, as many abolitionists recognized the connections between various forms of oppression. Ultimately, their efforts contributed significantly to the abolition of slavery in the United States.