Horace Waller (soldier)

Horace Waller (1833-1896) was an English clergyman and anti-slavery activist, best known for his association with David Livingstone and his advocacy against the East African slave trade. Although primarily remembered for his religious and humanitarian work, Waller also served as a soldier, albeit briefly, in a colonial context.

Waller initially worked as a curate before becoming deeply involved in anti-slavery efforts. He joined Livingstone's Zambezi Expedition in 1861, serving as chaplain and general assistant. His experiences during this expedition, particularly witnessing the brutal effects of the slave trade firsthand, solidified his dedication to its abolition. Following Livingstone's death, Waller became a prominent figure in advocating for the suppression of the slave trade in East Africa.

Waller's military involvement was limited but significant. During his time in South Africa in the late 1870s and early 1880s, he served as a volunteer in the Cape Frontier Wars, specifically in conflicts against indigenous populations. While the precise nature and extent of his military service are not extensively documented, his participation reflects the complex and often contradictory role of missionaries and activists in colonial contexts. He believed that suppressing indigenous resistance was necessary to establish order and facilitate the suppression of the slave trade, aligning himself with the broader goals of British colonial expansion in the region.

Waller's work extended beyond direct military service. He actively lobbied the British government to take a stronger stance against the slave trade and supported efforts to establish protectorates in East Africa. He also wrote extensively on the subject, using his personal experiences and insights to raise awareness and garner support for abolitionist causes. His writings and public advocacy played a significant role in shaping public opinion and influencing policy decisions related to East Africa.

His legacy is complex, acknowledged both for his significant contributions to the anti-slavery movement and his participation, however limited, in colonial military campaigns. He is primarily remembered as a tireless advocate for the abolition of the slave trade in East Africa and a close associate of David Livingstone.