William Wilberforce was a privileged man. He was given a second chance; he was in many ways resurrected. Because of his efforts the world is a much more compassionate and just place. Wilberforce was born in 1759 in Hull, England, the son of a wealthy merchant. As a youth he led a rather dissolute life; his father's money allowed him access to people and things, yet he used his privilege to his advantage or abused it to the detriment of others. In 1780, he became a member of parliament representing Yorkshire. At this time he initiated what would become a lifelong friendship with William Pitt the Younger, who would later serve with distinction as Prime Minister. Still, he continued his self-indulgent ways; there seemed to be no stopping his actions that brought him further and further from G…