Adin Ballou

Adin Ballou cph.3b02632

American minister and abolitionist (1803–1890)

Adin Ballou

Name	Adin Ballou
Birth name
Birth date	April 23, 1803
Birth place	Cumberland, Rhode Island, United States
Death date	August 5, 1890
Death place	Hopedale, Massachusetts, United States
Alma mater
Occupation	Minister, abolitionist, pacifist, Social reformer
Years active
Organization
Known for
Notable works
Spouse(s)	Lucy Hunt Ballou
Website

Adin Ballou (April 23, 1803 – August 5, 1890) was an American minister, abolitionist, pacifist, and social reformer. He is best known for his work in the abolitionist movement, his advocacy for Christian pacifism, and his role in founding the Hopedale Community.

Early Life

Adin Ballou was born in Cumberland, Rhode Island, on April 23, 1803. He was raised in a Universalist family and later became a Unitarian minister. Ballou's early experiences and religious upbringing significantly influenced his later work in social reform and abolitionism.

Ministry and Abolitionism

Ballou was ordained as a Universalist minister in 1822 and later transitioned to the Unitarian faith. He became a prominent figure in the abolitionist movement, advocating for the immediate emancipation of slaves and the end of slavery in the United States. Ballou's commitment to abolitionism was deeply rooted in his religious beliefs and his conviction that all human beings are equal in the eyes of God.

Christian Pacifism

Adin Ballou was a staunch advocate of Christian pacifism, believing that violence and war were incompatible with the teachings of Jesus Christ. He wrote extensively on the subject, arguing that Christians should adhere to the principles of nonviolence and peace. Ballou's writings on pacifism influenced many later peace movements and social reformers.

Hopedale Community

In 1841, Ballou founded the Hopedale Community in Hopedale, Massachusetts. The community was based on the principles of Christian socialism, nonviolence, and communal living. It aimed to create a model society that embodied the values of equality, justice, and peace. The Hopedale Community attracted many like-minded individuals and became a center for social reform and progressive thought.

Later Life and Legacy

Adin Ballou continued to be active in social reform and pacifism throughout his life. He wrote several books and articles on Christian pacifism, abolitionism, and social reform. Ballou passed away on August 5, 1890, in Hopedale, Massachusetts. His legacy lives on through his writings and the continued influence of his ideas on peace movements and social justice.

Selected Works

• Christian Non-Resistance
• Practical Christian Socialism
• History of the Hopedale Community

See Also

• Abolitionism
• Christian pacifism
• Hopedale Community
• Unitarianism
• Universalism