Haitian Revolution

What was the social hierarchy in Haiti in 1789?

It consisted of three groups: 1) White colonists (les blancs), including plantation owners and lower-class whites; 2) Free people of color (gens de couleur libres), often mixed-race; 3) African-born slaves, who were the majority.

How did the French Revolution impact the Haitian Revolution?

It led to the abolition of slavery in French colonies, which encouraged slaves in Haiti to revolt against their oppression.

What role did Toussaint L'Ouverture play in the Haitian Revolution?

He was a key leader who helped consolidate power, fought for freedoms, and eventually restored control of Saint-Domingue to France.

Who was Jean-Jacques Dessalines and what was his impact?

He declared Haiti a free republic on January 1, 1804, and led the country post-revolution.

What was Haiti's social hierarchy after the revolution?

It was influenced by the new independence but retained divisions, with free people of color gaining elite status, while many former slaves remained in difficult positions.

What influence did the Haitian Revolution have on slavery in the Americas?

It inspired slave rebellions and brought attention to the issues of slavery among slaveholders and political leaders in the U.S. and other areas.

What were the demographics of Saint-Domingue in 1789?

The population consisted of about 40,000 whites, 28,000 free people of color, and an estimated 452,000 enslaved blacks.

What was the Code Noir and how was it treated by slave masters?

The Code Noir was a law passed in 1685 to regulate the treatment of slaves, but it was frequently ignored and violated by slave masters.

What was the War of Knives?

It was a conflict initiated by André Rigaud against Toussaint L'Ouverture in the struggle for control over Saint-Domingue.

What was one of the key outcomes of Toussaint's rule?

He issued a constitution in 1801 that called for black autonomy and a sovereign black state.