Why did William Wilberforce write the song amazing grace?

William Wilberforce did not write the song "Amazing Grace." The hymn was actually penned by John Newton in 1772, reflecting Newton's personal transformation from a slave trader to a Christian minister. Wilberforce, a contemporary of Newton, was a strong advocate for the abolition of the slave trade in Britain, inspired by similar values of redemption and social justice. Both men shared a commitment to ending slavery, but their contributions came through different avenues.