Toussaint L’Ouverture

Toussaint L’Ouverture was born into bondage in Saint-Domingue, which is modern day Hati. Saint- Domingue was a French colony that thrived from its sugar, coffee, indigo, and cotton plantations. Toussaint was born May 20, 1743, as an enslaved boy. Saint Domingue became egalitarian inspired by the French Revolution. While the slaves were discussing burning down the plantations, and killing the slave owners (1791), L’Ouverture didn’t participate initially.  

L'Ouverture was free for roughly 15 years (between 1772-1776) prior to the initial revolt. Once freed, L’Ouverture changed his name to Toussaint de Bréda. He became a planter and tended to a plot of land he owned in the north of the island, while being an overseer at his former owner’s plantation. Toussaint owned slaves and remained his connection to his friends on his old owner’s plantation. By doing so he was able to free the last remaining enslaved, he also was able to accumulate a small amount of wealth.

Prior to officially joining the revolution, Toussaint studied African and Creole medical techniques, entering the war as a physician. Following his contributions as physician he displayed charisma as a leader, his ability to strategize, good judgement for tactics. His skills led him to becoming a general, where he directed his forces to victory over the planter class, and thousands of invading French troops.

Toussaint was so keen, he played the Spanish, English, and French against one another, using his political canny. Following his defeat of the Spanish, English, French he began working with the U.S to rebuild the economy, which would benefit both the island and the U.S. This alliance rose the exports to the colony by 260% ($7.1 million) and afforded them naval protection on trading vessels. Not only did he conjure a deal with the U.S. He also extended leniency to white citizens to allow them to continue working on their plantations but ensured that the black people working on those plantations would be paid. This allowed the island to maintain its agricultural cultivation, while managing the social, religious, class unrest.

Toussaint L’Ouverture led the eradication of his island and human bondage. He also led charges into battles and survived numerous near-death experiences. Unfortunately, Toussaint was captured in 1802 and expedited to a French jail where he died. He was unable to live to see his island gain its independence.

Thank you, Toussaint L’Ouverture for your contributions to the culture!