Final answer:
During the colonial period in New England, the Enlightenment and the French Revolution influenced people to question the morality of slavery. Prominent Quaker figures, such as John Woolman and Anthony Benezet, also spoke out against slavery, sparking discussions and actions against it in Massachusetts and other colonies.
Step-by-step explanation:
During the colonial period, there were several events in New England that made people question whether slavery was right or wrong. One significant event was the influence of the Enlightenment and the French Revolution, which prompted some individuals to question the imposition of slavery. Additionally, prominent Quaker figures such as John Woolman and Anthony Benezet spoke out against slavery, arguing that it contradicted their faith. Their ideas spread beyond the Quaker community, leading to discussions and actions against slavery in Massachusetts and other colonies. These events played a crucial role in initiating the public debate on the morality of slavery in New England.