Veganism, the practice of abstaining from the use of animal products, has gained significant popularity in recent years. But have you ever wondered how this lifestyle choice came to be? In this article, we will take a journey through history to explore the origins of veganism and the individuals who played a crucial role in its development.
Pythagoras of Samos
Our journey begins in ancient Greece with Pythagoras of Samos, a philosopher and mathematician who lived in the 6th century BCE. While Pythagoras is best known for his contributions to mathematics, he was also a strong advocate for vegetarianism. He believed in the concept of transmigration of souls, which suggests that the souls of humans and animals are interconnected. As a result, Pythagoras and his followers abstained from eating meat, making them some of the earliest known vegans in history.
Followers of Buddhism
Another group of early vegans can be found among the followers of Buddhism. Buddhism, which originated in the 6th century BCE in ancient India, promotes compassion and non-violence towards all living beings. As a result, many Buddhists choose to follow a vegetarian or vegan diet. The concept of ahimsa, or non-harming, is deeply ingrained in Buddhist teachings and has influenced the dietary choices of its followers for centuries.
Followers of Hinduism
Hinduism, one of the oldest religions in the world, also has a long history of vegetarianism. Many Hindus believe in the principle of ahimsa and strive to live a life of non-violence. While not all Hindus are vegans, a significant number choose to follow a vegetarian or vegan diet as a way to practice compassion towards animals.
Followers of Jainism
Jainism, an ancient religion that originated in India, places a strong emphasis on non-violence and respect for all forms of life. Jains follow a strict vegetarian or vegan diet, avoiding not only meat but also root vegetables, as they believe that uprooting plants causes harm to living beings. Jains are known for their commitment to ahimsa and have been practicing veganism for centuries.
The Ephrata Cloister religious sect
In the 18th century, a religious sect known as the Ephrata Cloister emerged in Pennsylvania, USA. The members of this sect, who were inspired by German pietism, lived a communal lifestyle and followed a strict vegetarian diet. They believed that consuming animal products went against their spiritual beliefs and chose to abstain from them entirely. The Ephrata Cloister is considered one of the earliest known vegan communities in the United States.
Jeremy Bentham
Jeremy Bentham, an influential philosopher and social reformer of the 18th and 19th centuries, was a strong advocate for animal rights. He argued that the ability to suffer, rather than the ability to reason, should be the basis for granting moral consideration to beings. Bentham’s ideas laid the foundation for the modern animal rights movement and influenced many individuals to adopt a vegan lifestyle.
Members of the Vegetarian Society (formed in 1847)
In 1847, the Vegetarian Society was formed in Manchester, England. This society aimed to promote vegetarianism as a way to improve health, prevent cruelty to animals, and protect the environment. While not all members of the Vegetarian Society were vegans, the society played a crucial role in raising awareness about the ethical and environmental implications of animal agriculture.
Rev. Sylvester Graham and his Grahamites
In the 19th century, Rev. Sylvester Graham, an American Presbyterian minister, advocated for a plant-based diet as a means to promote health and prevent disease. His followers, known as Grahamites, embraced a vegan lifestyle and promoted the consumption of whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Graham’s teachings had a significant impact on the early vegan movement in the United States.
Donald Watson (coined the term «vegan» in 1944)
One of the most influential figures in the history of veganism is Donald Watson. In 1944, Watson, along with a group of like-minded individuals, founded the Vegan Society in the United Kingdom. He coined the term «vegan» to describe individuals who abstain from the use of animal products for ethical reasons. Watson’s efforts to promote veganism and establish a community of vegans laid the groundwork for the modern vegan movement.
Moby
In recent years, veganism has gained popularity among celebrities and musicians. One notable vegan advocate is Moby, an American musician and DJ. Moby has been a vocal supporter of animal rights and has used his platform to raise awareness about the ethical and environmental implications of animal agriculture. His advocacy has inspired many individuals to adopt a vegan lifestyle.
Woody Harrelson
Another well-known celebrity vegan is Woody Harrelson, an American actor and activist. Harrelson has been a vegan for over 30 years and has spoken out about the benefits of a plant-based diet for both personal health and the environment. His advocacy has helped to popularize veganism and encourage others to make more conscious dietary choices.
Fiona Apple
Fiona Apple, an American singer-songwriter, is another prominent figure in the vegan community. Apple has been a vegan for many years and has used her platform to speak out against animal cruelty and promote a compassionate lifestyle. Her activism has inspired many of her fans to consider adopting a vegan lifestyle.
Dennis Kucinich
Dennis Kucinich, a former member of the United States House of Representatives, is known for his advocacy of veganism and animal rights. Kucinich has been a vegan for over 20 years and has introduced legislation to promote plant-based diets and reduce animal cruelty. His efforts have helped to bring the issue of veganism into the political sphere and raise awareness about the ethical implications of animal agriculture.
In conclusion, veganism has a long and rich history that dates back to ancient times. From the teachings of Pythagoras and the principles of Buddhism and Hinduism to the modern vegan movement led by individuals like Donald Watson and celebrities like Moby and Woody Harrelson, veganism has evolved and grown over the centuries. Today, veganism continues to gain momentum as more people recognize the ethical, environmental, and health benefits of a plant-based lifestyle.
