How and when did Veganism start?

Veganism, as a lifestyle and dietary choice, has a rich history rooted in ethical, environmental, and health concerns. While the term "vegan" is relatively modern, the principles behind it have ancient roots, with philosophical and cultural influences shaping its evolution.
The term "vegan" was coined in 1944 by Donald Watson, a British animal rights activist and founder of the Vegan Society. However, the idea of abstaining from animal products dates back centuries. The roots of veganism can be traced to ancient Indian and Greek philosophies, where some individuals practiced a plant-based lifestyle for ethical and spiritual reasons.
In ancient India, the concept of ahimsa, or non-violence, played a significant role in shaping dietary choices. Followers of Jainism and Buddhism, in particular, embraced vegetarianism as a way to avoid causing harm to living beings. The ancient Greek philosopher Pythagoras and his followers also advocated for a vegetarian diet based on moral and ethical considerations.
Throughout history, various religious and cultural movements embraced plant-based diets. In the Middle Ages, some Christian sects promoted vegetarianism as a way to practice compassion and reject indulgence in animal products. However, these practices were often associated with specific religious or philosophical groups rather than widespread movements.
The 18th and 19th centuries saw the emergence of organized vegetarian movements in Europe and North America. Influential figures such as Percy Bysshe Shelley, a renowned poet, and Sylvester Graham, a Presbyterian minister, promoted vegetarianism as a means of promoting physical and moral well-being. While these movements primarily focused on health and ethical concerns, they laid the groundwork for the later development of veganism.
The 20th century witnessed a shift in the vegetarian movement towards a more explicit rejection of all animal products. The term "vegan" was introduced by Donald Watson and his associates in 1944, who formed the Vegan Society in the United Kingdom. The society defined veganism as a way of living that seeks to exclude, as far as possible and practicable, all forms of exploitation and cruelty to animals for food, clothing, or any other purpose.
The rise of veganism gained momentum in the latter half of the 20th century, spurred by the publication of influential books and documentaries exposing the harsh realities of factory farming and the environmental impact of animal agriculture. Works like Peter Singer's "Animal Liberation" and documentaries like "Earthlings" contributed to a growing awareness of the ethical implications of consuming animal products.
In recent decades, the vegan movement has expanded globally, with a surge in plant-based diets driven by concerns for animal welfare, environmental sustainability, and personal health. Celebrities, athletes, and influential personalities have embraced and promoted veganism, further contributing to its popularity.
The advent of social media has played a crucial role in connecting like-minded individuals, sharing information, and fostering a sense of community among vegans worldwide. The rise of vegan influencers, bloggers, and online communities has made information about veganism more accessible and has helped dispel myths and misconceptions surrounding plant-based lifestyles.
Today, veganism is no longer considered a niche movement but a mainstream and rapidly growing lifestyle choice. It has evolved from its ancient philosophical roots to become a dynamic and influential movement that encompasses a broad range of motivations, from ethics and environment to health and wellness. As veganism continues to gain traction, its impact on food production, culture, and the global environment is likely to grow, making it an enduring and significant aspect of modern dietary choices.