John Newton

John Henry Newton was a notable figure in English history, serving as both a sailor and an Anglican clergyman. Early on in his career, he was involved in the slave trade and was even enslaved himself for a brief period of time. However, a religious conversion led him to become a minister and hymn-writer, as well as a strong advocate for the abolition of slavery. He penned the lyrics to numerous hymns, including the beloved classics "Amazing Grace" and "Glorious Things of Thee are Spoken."