The Ancient Roots of Plant-Based Living
The idea of abstaining from animal products for ethical or religious reasons dates back over 2,000 years, long before the term 'veganism' existed. In ancient India (around 500 BCE), religions like Jainism and Buddhism promoted ahimsa (non-violence), leading many to adopt plant-based diets. Emperor Ashoka (c. 268–232 BCE) even issued decrees against animal slaughter.
In ancient Greece, philosopher Pythagoras (c. 570–490 BCE) advocated for vegetarianism based on the transmigration of souls, leading his followers to adopt a "Pythagorean diet" of vegetables, bread, and honey. While ethical in spirit, these practices often weren't as strictly defined as modern veganism.
Vegetarianism in the Western World (1800s)
The 19th century saw growing concerns for animal welfare in the West. Early figures like Dr. William Lambe in 1815 and poet Percy Bysshe Shelley in 1813 challenged the consumption of eggs and dairy on ethical grounds, laying groundwork for stricter plant-based diets. Vegan communities, such as Fruitlands founded by Amos Bronson Alcott in 1844, also emerged.
The Birth of Modern Veganism: Donald Watson and The Vegan Society
The term 'vegan' was coined in 1944 by Donald Watson, a British vegetarian troubled by the ethics of dairy and egg consumption. He and five others founded The Vegan Society and launched a newsletter. Watson derived 'vegan' from "vegetarian," signifying the beginning and end of the term, to distinguish their philosophy from lacto-ovo vegetarians who still consumed eggs and dairy. The initial focus was dietary, but it soon expanded to a broader stance against all animal exploitation.
The Expansion of the Vegan Ethic
In 1949, Leslie J. Cross proposed a definition that broadened veganism to advocate for the emancipation of animals from all human exploitation, including food, clothing, labor, and entertainment. This transformed veganism into a comprehensive lifestyle and activist movement.
Throughout the late 20th and 21st centuries, veganism grew due to:
- Animal Rights: Work by philosophers like Peter Singer and Tom Regan strengthened ethical arguments.
- Health Benefits: Awareness of reduced risk for heart disease and some cancers spurred interest.
- Environmental Concerns: The link between animal agriculture and environmental issues like climate change increased adoption.
The Growth of Modern Veganism
The movement has significantly grown in the 21st century. Advances in plant-based food technology and increasing global awareness have made veganism a mainstream and sustainable choice.
| Feature | Ancient Plant-Based Practices | Modern Veganism |
|---|---|---|
| Motivations | Primarily religious or philosophical (e.g., ahimsa, transmigration of souls) | Diverse: Ethical, environmental, health, and religious |
| Terminology | Not formalized; often called "Pythagorean diet" or rooted in religious tenets | Defined term "vegan" and specific ethical principles established by The Vegan Society |
| Scope | Often focused on diet, though principles of non-violence sometimes extended to other areas | Encompasses diet and lifestyle, rejecting exploitation for food, clothing, and other uses |
| Organization | Organized around philosophical schools or religious communities | Global social movement with formal organizations, advocacy groups, and resources |
| Cultural Context | Varied widely by region and belief system; often a minority practice | Growing mainstream movement with increasing global awareness and availability of products |
Conclusion: A Journey of Ethical Evolution
The question of "When did people start being vegans?" reveals a long history. While the term and movement began in 1944, the underlying ideas and practices of plant-based living, driven by ethical concerns, span millennia. This journey from ancient diets to the comprehensive modern lifestyle reflects an evolving understanding of compassion. The formalization of veganism provided a clear identity and purpose, leading to the global movement seen today. The expansion of its ethical framework, supported by scientific and environmental knowledge, continues to boost its popularity and relevance. For more details on the formal history, refer to The Vegan Society's website.
