Most 18th century expeditions to Africa weren’t funded by the explorers themselves, but instead relied upon the patronage – both financial and political – of wealthy and influential men back in England. Often these men acted through the auspices of companies or societies, such as the African Association or the Sierra Leone Company. Though across the board they represented the wealthy upper classes of Britain, their individual interests varied. Some were openly political, holding a seat in Parliament. Others were political activists, like Granville Sharp, a dedicated proponent of the abolition of the slave trade. And yet others were intellectuals, involved in scientific inquiry and research in various fields. All were in some way, shape, or form, attached to the great political machine of Britain, whether through the work of groups that they belonged to, or their own personal connections and acquaintances.
Patrons
Intellectuals / Activists
Some of the most politically active Britons weren’t in fact politicians. Scientific patron and Treasurer of the African Association, Sir Joseph Banks, never held a seat in Parliament, but could count George III among his friends. And among the founders of the Sierra Leone Company, Granville Sharp, Thomas Clarkson and others were both ardent abolitionists …
Politicians
Many of those involved in sponsoring and promoting British exploration and colonization of Africa were politicans, even if they didn’t act in that official capacity when involving themselves with explorers and expeditions. Of the twelve founding members of the African Association, ten had political experience, ranging from Sir John Sinclair and Lord Rawdon, both active …