It’s Not a New Fad: The Surprising History of Plant-Based Diets (From Ancient Egypt to Today) 

You might be surprised to learn that veganism isn’t a modern invention. In fact, the philosophy of a plant-based diet can be found in countless cultures and civilizations stretching back millennia. The ancient tradition of ahimsa—meaning non-violence and respect for all living beings—was shared by Buddhists, Jains, and Hindus thousands of years ago, laying a key foundation for vegan philosophy.  

Likewise, the Rastafari culture’s Ital living embodies a reverence for life through a wholefood, plant-based diet. Even the ancient Egyptians honored animals as sacred, while in ancient Greece, thinkers like Pythagoras articulated an early form of animal rights and recognised the health benefits of plant-based eating. 

This history isn’t limited to a single era or place. Around a thousand years ago in Syria, a poet named Al Ma’aari wrote beautiful verses on the theme of not using animals, with words that are just as relevant today. Closer to home, vegetarianism began to rise in the UK around 500 years ago, leading to the formation of the Vegetarian Society in 1847. This movement was often aligned with other political causes of the time, including the anti-vivisection groups and the suffragettes, many of whom were vegetarian. This shows that the link between what we eat and social justice has a long, fascinating history. 

Then, in November 1944, a pivotal moment arrived: the birth of The Vegan Society in the UK. What began with just a handful of members at a time of great global hardship laid the foundations for a social movement that would eventually change the world. Over 80 years later, that small group has grown into a global community of an estimated 80 million vegans worldwide, with millions more following a plant-based lifestyle. The growth of this movement is a testament to the power of a simple, moral idea. 

This rich and global history shows that the case for veganism is not new. It has been a constant thread throughout humanity, with key developments accelerating our progress over time. The formation of the modern vegan movement in 1944 was a crucial moment where individuals came together to build a powerful force for change. By joining this movement today, you are not just following a modern trend, you are taking part in a long and meaningful tradition of compassion, justice, and respect for all living beings. 

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Further Reading

www.whygovegan.org.uk/veganism/vegan-pioneers/

www.whygovegan.org.uk/veganism/history/