The history of veganism around the world

The concept of abstaining from all animal products, including dairy and eggs, gained momentum through several key historical periods and is deeply intertwined with the cultural fabric of the United Kingdom.

Understanding the history of veganism not only provides the historical context but also reveals its deep connections to ethical living and compassionate values that continue to influence our society. But what catalysed its growth in the modern world?

Veganism in ancient times

The earliest tenets of veganism can be found in Eastern philosophies, where followers of Buddhism, Jainism, and Hinduism shared the belief of “Ahimsa” - a Sanskrit term that can be translated as “non-violence” or “non-harming”. “Ahimsa”, founded on the principles of harmony, prohibits harming or causing suffering to any sentient beings, including animals.

In ancient India, dating from 1500-500 BCE, the Rigveda, one of the oldest sacred texts of Hindusim, extolled the virtues of vegetarianism and non-violence towards animals.

Greece’s renowned philosopher and mathematician, Pythagoras, and his followers, in around 500 BCE, are also often linked to vegetarianism which marked an early step in ethical considerations towards animal welfare.

Later, Jainism, which arose in the 6th century BCE, also advocated strict vegetarianism, if not outright veganism, as a means of practising non-violence.

In the 4th century, Chinese Buddhism and Taoism underwent a significant shift towards veganism, aligning with the broader philosophical and ethical principles of these traditions.

Fast forward a few hundred years and the Enlightenment period of the 18th century witnessed a philosophical shift challenging conventional beliefs, including the treatment of animals. Thinkers like Voltaire and Jean-Jacques Rousseau criticised animal cruelty and encouraged plant-based diets.

In the UK, the 19th century saw Christian sects such as the Seventh-day Adventists and the Bible Christian Church embrace vegetarianism, reflecting their belief in adhering to a biblical diet that emphasised compassion for animals.

The UK’s early vegetarian societies, particularly the Vegetarian Society founded in 1847, played a vital role in the early promotion of plant-based living. Although the term “vegan” had not yet been coined, these organisations paved the way for the organised vegan movement in the UK.

History of Veganism in the UK - The Vegan Society

The 20th century witnessed a profound transformation of veganism, particularly in the United Kingdom, where it evolved from a dietary choice into a distinct philosophy with an unwavering ethical foundation. At its core, veganism became a resolute rejection of all forms of animal exploitation.

Central to this transformation, in 1944, the term “vegan” was coined, and “The Vegan Society” was established in the UK. It was founded by Donald Watson, a British woodworker (also known as the “Father of Veganism”), along with his wife Dorothy and other compatriots. He believed in “the principle of the emancipation of animals from exploitation by man.”

The term “vegan” was ingeniously formed by taking the first three and last two letters of the word “vegetarian”, which symbolised a profound ethical and dietary departure from the broader vegetarian movement. Hence, “veganism”, an extension of vegetarianism, aimed to set a higher ethical standard by refraining not only from animal flesh but also from all animal-derived products.

The foundation of this movement emphasised the importance of minimising animal exploitation and cruelty by seeking protection of the rights of animals, considering their welfare as a fundamental moral principle.

In the UK, this transformation sparked a shift in societal norms and practices, challenging conventional thinking and habits related to food and other consumer products. Veganism was no longer merely a dietary preference; it was a powerful ethical stance against the exploitation of animals.

This evolution laid the foundation for veganism’s enduring significance in contemporary society, as it continued to influence animal rights, health, and sustainability.

History of veganism in the the USA

Soon the ethical principles and foundations extended far beyond British shores and landed in the United States, where its diverse cultural landscape became a fertile ground for the expansion of veganism.

Just four years after the establishment of The Vegan Society in the UK, in 1948, the United States witnessed the formation of its own Vegan Society. Led by Dr. Catherine Nimmo and Rubin Abramowitz, the American Vegan Society (AVS) was driven by a confluence of factors, including awareness of animal rights, health considerations, spiritual growth, and increased consciousness of the environmental impact of food choices.

This transformative period in the United States witnessed influential figures like Isaac Bashevis Singer, a Nobel Prize-winning author, advocating for vegetarianism and animal rights. Frances Moore Lappé’s groundbreaking book, Diet for a Small Planet, highlighted the ethical and environmental impacts of our food choices, inspiring a shift toward plant-based diets.

John Robbins, heir to the Baskin-Robbins ice cream empire, raised awareness of the ethical and health aspects of veganism in his best-selling book, Diet for a New America. Their efforts mirrored the compassionate ethos that underpinned the UK’s vegan movement and resonated deeply with people across nations.

Continuing this remarkable development, The Vegan Society’s publications, notably The Vegan News, were instrumental in disseminating veganism globally. This newsletter dispelled myths, offered practical guidance, and showcased personal narratives of individuals who embraced veganism. It connected a diverse global community committed to ethical living, animal rights, and plant-based diets. These stories reflected transformations not limited by geography but transcending borders, highlighting that veganism was a universal movement.

Contemporary impact of veganism in the UK and beyond

Veganism's present-day significance is undeniable, with a remarkable global impact and substantial growth, notably prominent in the UK. This movement has matured beyond being a niche dietary preference and now stands as a potent catalyst reshaping our approach to food, the environment, and ethical consumerism.

On a global scale, the vegan movement has exploded, with millions of people adopting plant-based lifestyles. Figures like Greta Thunberg and David Attenborough have emphasised the environmental consequences of our dietary choices, galvanising a commitment to veganism to mitigate climate change. Lewis Hamilton, a seven times Formula 1 World Champion and a huge promoter of veganism, said,

“

Being a part of the issue is not meaningful. Being part of the solution is and I’m striving to do better...Go vegan, it is the only way to truly save our planet today. It can be done so quickly, all you have to do is put your mind to it.

Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic has amplified concerns about zoonotic diseases, further driving the appeal of plant-based diets.

In the UK, veganism has seen exponential growth, demonstrated by the surge in demand for vegan products in supermarkets, the proliferation of vegan eateries, and the development of an expansive plant-based market.

High-profile figures of Hollywood such as Jerome Flynn and Dave Spikey, famous musicians like Paul McCartney and Chris Martin, as well as influential chefs like Gaz Oakley and Jamie Oliver have championed veganism, amplifying its appeal.

The Government's involvement, from endorsing "Better Health" campaigns promoting plant-based eating to considering sustainability in dietary guidelines, reflects the broader societal shift towards veganism.

What next?

As we journey through the historical timelines of veganism, it becomes evident that this ethical and dietary choice extends beyond time and boundaries to become a global force for compassion and sustainability. Understanding its roots, particularly in the UK, is key to appreciating the profound impact veganism has on our world today.

Veganism's commitment to animal welfare and non-exploitation aligns seamlessly with our mission, creating a better world for all sentient beings. It's more than a dietary preference; it's a powerful ethical stance that influences discussions on animal rights, health, and sustainability.

Now, as we stand at this moment in time, we invite you to join us in advocating for a world where compassion and sustainability guide our choices.

Take the next step by signing up to receive our emails. Stay informed, get involved, and be part of the transformation toward a kinder, more ethical world. Together, we can create a brighter future for animals, our health, and the planet.

Join us in this meaningful journey today.