History

The Vegan Society, founded in November 1944, has significantly advanced the vegan movement. Veganism predates the society by thousands of years, with figures like Pythagoras and Buddha promoting plant-based diets as early as 500 BCE. The concept gained momentum in the 19th century when Dr. William Lambe and Percy Bysshe Shelley challenged the consumption of eggs and dairy. Donald Watson, alongside five others, formally established the Vegan Society in 1944, coining the term "vegan" to denote a diet free from all animal-derived products. The society's definition of veganism evolved, emphasizing a lifestyle that excludes all forms of animal exploitation, which was solidified by Leslie J. Cross in 1949. The society became a registered charity in 1964, refining its mission over the years. Today, the Vegan Society remains committed to promoting vegan lifestyles for the betterment of animals, humans, and the environment, urging people to join their ongoing mission.