Have you ever stopped to think about how our views on animals have changed over time? It’s fascinating to see how far we’ve come. Not too long ago, people rarely questioned the use of animals in circuses or even in scientific research labs. But now, we talk more about animal welfare, anti-cruelty laws, and the ethical treatment of animals. We've started to ask some serious questions about whether it’s right to use animals for our entertainment or scientific research. This conversation, known as animal rights activism, has taken root worldwide.
In this post, we’ll share the complete history of this movement, from the early days when humans considered animals mere property to the breakthroughs in legislation that shape our perspective today.
Looking back, humans generally saw animals as creatures without feelings, a labor resource, or even status symbols. Ancient civilizations used animals in rituals, and it was common to see them forced into arenas for entertainment. While there were moments of reverence or spiritual connection in some cultures—like how certain animals were worshipped in ancient Egypt—these attitudes didn’t typically translate into what we now call animal welfare.
Over the centuries, animals often suffered in silence. Circuses traveled from town to town, displaying wild animals in cramped cages for people’s amusement. Horses pulled heavy loads with little regard for their health, and dogs were bred to fight for sport. These practices were rarely questioned, let alone condemned, because most saw animals as mere commodities.
Only in the early 19th century did a few individuals think about animal suffering more seriously. You might have heard of Richard Martin, alias “Humanity Dick,” a member of the British Parliament who championed one of the first anti-cruelty laws. His efforts helped pass legislation in 1822 to protect cattle from mistreatment. This law was groundbreaking for its time because it recognized that animals can feel pain—and that humans have a responsibility not to abuse them.
Around the same time, groups began forming to promote the ethical treatment of animals. These early organizations mainly focused on working animals and livestock, but they planted the seed that cruelty to animals was morally wrong. Some members of these groups even came from law school backgrounds, using their legal knowledge to argue that animals deserved protection in court. This marked a massive shift in how society viewed animals and paved the way for future conversations about more comprehensive rights.
Fast-forward to the late 20th century, and you’ll find that the movement for animal rights was gaining real momentum. Philosophers and writers started publishing works questioning humanity’s perceived supremacy over animals. One of the most influential voices in this regard is Peter Singer, whose 1975 book Animal Liberation helped spark modern animal rights activism. Singer argued that animals deserve moral consideration equal to humans, especially since they can experience pain and pleasure like we do.
Another key figure is Richard Ryder, who introduced the idea of “speciesism”—the notion that discriminating against a being simply because it’s not human is no different from other forms of prejudice. These ideas inspired people worldwide to rethink their views and boycott circuses with performing animals, and protest the use of animals in laboratory research. Suddenly, caring about animals wasn’t just a fringe idea but part of a broader cultural shift toward compassion.
One more massively influential voice is Jane Goodall, who dedicated her life to understanding and protecting chimpanzees. Her research showed that chimpanzees make and use tools, form emotional bonds, and have unique personalities. This challenged the belief that humans are entirely distinct from other animals. It also gave a huge boost to the idea that animals—especially primates—need strong legal and social protections.
In the United States, a major milestone came with the passage of the Animal Welfare Act in 1966. Over the years, this legislation has expanded to set standards for treating animals in labs, zoos, circuses, and other facilities. Although it doesn’t cover every form of animal use, it marks a pivotal step in acknowledging that animals, even when used for human benefit, should be treated humanely.
Government agencies like the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) also regulate the care and treatment of animals. While enforcement can be inconsistent, the mere existence of these regulations shows that society increasingly recognizes animals as living beings deserving of some level of respect and protection.
Non-government organizations are also key players in animal rights activism. Many groups, including Lions Tigers & Bears, work tirelessly to advocate for policies that reduce cruelty in large-scale industries like laboratories. We use petitions, lobbying, and public awareness campaigns to push for stronger legislation and to educate people about responsible pet ownership and companion animals.
Other groups, such as the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries and the American Sanctuary Association, focus on setting standards for accredited sanctuaries that care for rescued wildlife. Sanctuaries like Lions Tigers & Bears in Southern California go beyond simply housing animals; they actively promote anti-cruelty measures and work to pass meaningful legislation like the Big Cat Public Safety Act. This act aims to protect big cats from private ownership, over breeding, and exploitation, ensuring they receive the best possible care.
There are also specialized groups like the Southern California Confiscations Network, which step in when animals are kept illegally or in poor conditions. Meanwhile, accredited sanctuaries like Lions Tigers & Bears work together to find the best home for abused and neglected lions, tigers, and other large cats. These organizations remind us that animals aren’t here for our entertainment and profit; they are sentient beings who have their own lives to live.
Even though we’ve come a long way, there’s still much to do. Practices like roadside zoos and non-accredited sanctuaries continue to cause immense animal suffering, and many animals remain legal property under the law. While some law school programs now offer courses in animal law, it’s still a growing field that needs more support. Advocates must also contend with industries that profit from animal exploitation, making legislative reform an uphill battle.
Despite these challenges, the conversation about animal welfare has grown louder, and more people than ever care about reducing harm to animals. You might notice less demand for circuses that use wild animals in performances. Younger generations, especially, are pushing for stricter regulations and calling for a more ethical world that respects both human, and non-human life.
Animal rights activism is rooted in the idea that animals deserve a life free from unnecessary harm. We can play a part by supporting accredited sanctuaries like Lions Tigers and Bears, or educating ourselves about the horrible wildlife trafficking trade. With a bit of compassion, we can make the world a kinder place for all living beings.