Veganism might seem like a modern trend, but it’s actually been around for centuries, with some of the most influential figures in history championing the cause.
These pioneers embraced plant-based living and significantly impacted the vegan movement. Let’s dive into the stories of these remarkable individuals.
Pythagoras: The Ancient Philosopher’s Diet
Pythagoras, the ancient philosopher from Samos, is closely associated with a meat-free lifestyle. Before ‘veganism’ was a term, such dietary choices were known as “Pythagorean.” While there’s some debate over whether Pythagoras was fully vegan, available sources indicate he followed a strict diet excluding animal products.
Leonardo Da Vinci: A Renaissance Man’s Compassion
Compelling evidence suggests Leonardo Da Vinci may have practiced veganism. Contemporary letters describe him as avoiding meat, and his own writings reveal a deep concern for animal welfare. His horror at the thought of animals being raised for consumption further supports this view.
Mahatma Gandhi: From Rebellious Teen to Vegan Advocate
In India, the concept of ‘Ahimsa’ – avoiding harm to animals – has long been prevalent. Mahatma Gandhi, initially a meat-eating, alcohol-drinking teenager, adopted veganism while studying law in London, returning to the Ahimsa practices of his early years.
Fran Kafka: A Literary Giant’s Health Journey
Fran Kafka, plagued by chronic digestive issues, turned to a lacto-vegetarian diet for relief. He also embraced Horace Fletcher’s teachings on thorough mastication of food, believing it to be beneficial for health.
Mary Shelley: A Novelist’s Ethical Stance
Influenced by her father and other influencers of her time, Mary Shelley was a vocal supporter of vegetarianism and opposed animal cruelty. Her vegan lifestyle is subtly reflected in the words of Dr. Frankenstein’s creature in her famous novel.
Leo Tolstoy: A Spiritual and Ethical Awakening
Leo Tolstoy’s adoption of a mystical version of Christianity, focusing on pacifism and anarchism, extended to his diet. His visit to a slaughterhouse profoundly affected him, leading him to advocate against animal harm and violence.
John Harvey Kellog: A Health-Food Evangelist
In the US, John Harvey Kellog was a leading advocate of veganism, promoting it as part of ‘biological living.’ He advised against alcohol and smoking and encouraged regular exercise, linking sexual activity to various health and mental issues.
Voltaire: Enlightenment Through Veganism
Voltaire, a significant figure in the French Enlightenment, regarded veganism as a virtue of the era. His writings and advocacy for religious, political, and social liberty included references to veganism, continuing to influence modern thought.
Susan B. Anthony: A Crusader for Social Justice
A champion of women’s rights and abolition of slavery, Susan B. Anthony was also an active participant in the animal welfare movement. She spoke at the first meeting of the American Vegetarian Society, highlighting her broad commitment to social justice causes.
Finishing Thoughts
These figures, each uniquely, have significantly influenced the vegan movement.
Their diverse backgrounds, from philosophy, art, and literature to social activism, illustrate that veganism is not just a diet but a lifestyle choice deeply intertwined with ethical, health, and environmental considerations.
Their legacies continue to inspire and shape the vegan movement today, proving that the roots of veganism are deep and its impact far-reaching.
