TBJ chaps 6-8, 10

Page 1: Military Developments in San Domingo

• Battle for Control:

  • North Province nearly recaptured by Spaniards; leaders Biassou and Jean François routed and demoralized.

  • British forces calculating territorial gains from Spain, with Dundas emphasizing a strong show in San Domingo.

• Toussaint's Strategic Moves:

  • Toussaint turns the tide with a bold attack, capturing positions on the right bank of the Artibonite River.

  • He drives British and Spanish forces across the river and almost captures St. Marc, a key stronghold.

Page 2: Shifting Power Dynamics

• Decisive Factors:

  • Toussaint emerges as the primary military leader among the blacks, commanding 5,000 men and establishing fortified positions.

  • The Republic is weak at sea, unable to provide support; meanwhile, British and Spanish forces are well-supplied with troops and resources.

• The Role of Toussaint:

  • Toussaint is seen as a French officer but effectively operates independently.

  • The majority of his troops are Africans born outside the colony, loyal to him as former slaves.

• Impact of Climate and Morale:

  • Despite dire conditions, the morale of the revolutionary army remains high, motivated by the ideals of liberty and equality.

• British Miscalculations:

  • Historian Fortescue highlights British underestimation of the combat capability of Toussaint's forces, leading to heavy losses.

• Leadership Changes:

  • Laveaux assumed sole charge of the colony, amidst accusations against former leaders Sonthonax and Polverel of treason.

Page 3: Toussaint's Leadership Style

• Military Presence and Impact:

  • Toussaint's charismatic leadership inspires both troops and officers, establishing him as a significant military figure.

  • Soldiers are motivated by high morale and the revolutionary slogans of liberty and equality.

• Challenges with Supplies:

  • The army occasionally lacks food and proper arms, with some soldiers forced to search for sustenance.

  • Despite limited resources, British attempts to encourage defection among Toussaint's men fail due to unwavering morale.

• Conflicting Tactics and Keenness for Unity:

  • Toussaint's letters indicate a strong belief in the unity of revolutionaries against the threat of slavery.

  • He diffuses tensions within the ranks by persuading disillusioned commanders to stay loyal to the Republic.

Page 4: Communicating with the Masses

• Toussaint's Proclamations:

  • Through letters and speeches, Toussaint emphasizes unity and fighting against British and royalist forces, distancing his followers from old tyrants.

  • He seeks to motivate mass support by reinforcing messages of freedom and equality, directly addressing the laborers.

• Effect of Toussaint's Leadership:

  • Under Toussaint's guidance, there is increasing trust among the masses, bridging the gap between former slaves and their new roles as soldiers.

  • Toussaint's experience and capabilities build his reputation, solidifying his control.

Page 5: Toussaint vs. Media Perception

• Propaganda and Resistance:

  • Internal strife exploited by British propaganda, misleading laborers with promises of freedom and political manipulation encompasses multiple parties.

  • The complexities of revolutionary sentiment create confusion among groups, each vying for power while attempting to sway public opinion.

• Toussaint's Answer to Insurrections:

  • Throughout various disturbances, Toussaint adopts a humane approach, calming the insurgent forces without harsh reprisals but emphasized the need for order.

Page 6: Foundation of Power

• Growing Authority of Toussaint:

  • By 1796, Toussaint recognizes his increasing importance as an all-round leader, trusted by both the revolutionary base and ex-slave officers.

  • His understanding of the precariousness of his position necessitates a focus on agricultural restoration to ensure stability.

• Balance of Power Dynamics:

  • Toussaint extends control into civilian governance, appointing whites to positions and urging their cooperation to maintain economic stability.

  • His administration remains strict, though he occasionally pardons those who rebel against him, maintaining long-term strategic alliances.