Toussaint Louverture
Slave Rebellion (Haitian Revolution)
Beginning of Revolution
In 1789, free colored people were inspired by the French Revolution and began to seek expanding their rights. In August 1791, a Vodou ceremony at Bois Caiman marked the start of a major slave rebellion in the North.
Toussaint's Involvement
Initially, Toussaint didn't want any involvement in the Revolution. But after the first few weeks, he sent his family to Spanish Santo Domingo where they would be safe. He joined the forces of Georges Biassou as a doctor for the troops. He commanded a small attachment.
Negotiations with France
In December of that year, Toussaint was involved in negotiations with Blanchelande, the French Governor, for the release of white prisoners and a return to work in exchange for a ban on the use of the whip. The slaves would also be granted an extra work day, and a handful of leaders would be granted freedom. When Blanchelande rejected the offer, Toussaint was influential in preventing the massacre of the prisoners.
- Toussaint Louverture
Saying this, Toussaint meant that overthrowing him would not rid the rebellion of Saint Domingue. The rebellion would only grow back.
Importance
#FrenchPeopleSuck
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