This former slave was sold to European slave-traders when he was 11 years old and shipped to Barbados before ending up on a plantation in the British colony of Virginia. He was then bought by a sailor in the Royal Navy and followed him into battle during Britain’s war with France. After being bought and sold by several others, Equiano was eventually able to purchase his freedom and move to Britain. Having received an education with the assistance of one of his owners, Equiano was the first to write a book about his experience as a slave. The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano was first published in 1789 and had a major influence on public opinion regarding the institution of slavery. The proceeds from the book allowed Equiano to campaign tirelessly for abolition and his efforts played a major role in the enactment of the 1807 Slave Trade Act.