The Haitian Revolution (1790-1804)

A set of flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to the Haitian Revolution, its significance, leaders, and comparisons with the American Revolution.

Haitian Revolution

A significant event from 1790-1804 where people of color in Haiti rebelled against French colonial rule, achieving freedom from slavery and France.

Significance

According to Dr. Gianoutsos’ essay, it represents a vision of republican citizenship, universal principles of equality, and a critique of the racism of slavery.

Toussaint Louverture

A key leader in the Haitian Revolution, born into slavery, who fought for equality and the abolition of slavery.

Saint-Domingue

The name of Haiti during the colonial period, known for its strong export economy and reliance on enslaved labor.

Economic Importance of Saint-Domingue

It produced 60% of the world’s coffee and 50% of the world’s sugar, making it highly profitable for France.

Communication during the Revolution

Historians noted that Enlightenment ideas of freedom and equality spread among enslaved people, including through Vodou religious practices.

French National Convention

In 1794, they abolished slavery in all French colonies as a response to the Haitian Revolution.

Napoleon Bonaparte

French leader who sought to reinstate slavery in Haiti and diminish the power of Toussaint Louverture.

King Charles X of France

Offered Haiti a deal in 1825 to recognize its independence in exchange for a debt that Haiti repaid over generations.

Comparative Revolutions

Both the American and Haitian Revolutions sought independence from European colonial rule but differed in leadership, focus, and outcomes.