The Haitian Revolution

The only successful large-scale revolt of enslaved people to create an independent state.

Background

Saint-Domingue was France's richest colony, producing sugar and coffee through the labour of several hundred thousand enslaved people. A small white elite, a large free population of colour and a vast enslaved majority lived in deep tension, which the ideas and politics of the French Revolution sharpened.

Course of events

A major uprising began in August 1791. Toussaint Louverture emerged as the most capable leader, and France's revolutionary government abolished slavery in 1793 and 1794. After Napoleon sent an expedition to restore the old order in 1802, Louverture was captured and died in France, but resistance continued under Jean-Jacques Dessalines, who declared Haiti independent on 1 January 1804.

Legacy

Haiti became the first country founded by formerly enslaved people. France demanded a large indemnity for recognition in 1825, which burdened the country's economy for generations. The revolution frightened slaveholding societies and encouraged anti-slavery movements around the Atlantic.