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Saint-Domingue was France's richest colony, producing huge amounts of sugar using enslaved African labor. Enslaved people outnumbered whites, and harsh conditions led to constant fear of rebellion -
The French Revolution spread ideas of liberty and equality. These ideas increased tension among Africans in Saint-Domingue -
Enslaved people launched a large uprising in northern Saint-Domingue destroying plantations and fighting colonial forces, beggining the Haitian Revolution -
Enslaved Rebels controlled about 1/3 of the island, showing that the rebellion was organized and powerful. -
The French government abolished slavery in its colonies to gain support from enslaved fighters against foreign invaders. -
From 1794 to 1798 Toussain became the most important leader of the Revolution, building a disclipene army and restoring order and production. -
Toussain issued a constitution for Saint-Domingue. The constitution ended slavery permanently and named him "governor for life". Although the colony remained officially French, it published as self governing state. -
Napoleon Bonaparte sent a large army to regain control and possibily restore slavery. Toussain was captured through deception, arrested and sent to France. -
Leadership passed to Jea Jaxques Desslines. French troops were weakened by yellow fever, lack of reinforcements and fierce resistance. November 18, 1803, at the Battle of Vertieres Haitain forces defeated the French army ending French rule. -
January 1, 1804, Hatiti offically declared independence. The former colony was renamed Haiti, an Indigenous Taino name. This became the first independent Black Republic and the only nation founded by successful slave rise.