Causes, Leaders, and Events of the Haitian Revolution

Section 1Main causes

The revolution was caused by brutal slavery, racial inequality, and demands for rights. The French Revolution also mattered because it spread ideas about liberty and equality. Enslaved Africans and free people of colour used these ideas to challenge the colony's unfair system.

Section 2The 1791 uprising

In 1791, enslaved people in northern Saint-Domingue began a major uprising. Plantations were attacked, and the rebellion spread. This was the start of a long and difficult revolution.

Section 3Key leaders

Toussaint Louverture became one of the most important leaders because of his military skill and political leadership. Jean-Jacques Dessalines later led the final struggle for independence. Other leaders and ordinary fighters also played major roles.

Section 4From colony to independence

France abolished slavery in the colony in 1794, but later Napoleon tried to restore control. Haitian forces resisted the French army. In 1804, Haiti declared independence, becoming the first Black republic in the world.