Lecture Notes: Haitian Revolution and Its Context

Introduction

• The Haitian Revolution (1791-1804) was a successful revolt of enslaved people.
• It's crucial to view it as a sequel to the 1776 revolt against British rule in North America, leading to the United States' formation.
• The lecture contrasts popular narratives with the argument in "The Counter Revolution of 1776."

The US Revolution and Its Foundations

• The US's foundation in 1776 was partly a revolt against London's incipient abolitionism.
• Somerset's case in 1772 suggested a future where slave property might be abolished, unsettling American colonies.
• Comparisons made with Southern Rhodesia's revolt in 1965 against decolonization and African majority rule.

African Descent and the Fight Against US Formation

• People of African descent in North America opposed the United States' formation.
• They sided with London, viewing the US revolution as a slaveholders' rebellion.
• Losing this battle resulted in ongoing struggles unless tables could be turned against oppressors.

The Haitian Revolution

• Haitians on the island of Hispaniola succeeded against the French military.
• This was a significant act of valor, establishing an independent black republic in 1804.
• U.S. President George Washington expressed reservations about this revolution.

Influence on Slave Revolts in North America

• Haitian Revolution influenced major slave revolts in North America:
  • Gabriel's revolt in Virginia (circa 1800)
  • Denmark Vesey's revolt (1821-22) in South Carolina
  • Nat Turner's revolt (1831) in Virginia
• Denmark Vesey, a seafarer, aimed for freedom potentially in Haiti.

Regional and Global Impact

• Haitian revolutionaries inspired or instigated other revolts throughout the hemisphere.
• The Haitian Revolution is argued to have ignited a general crisis in the slave system.
• The crisis contributed to slavery's collapse, not just within North America but influenced by Haiti and British abolitionists in London.

Conclusion

• Understanding slavery's collapse requires looking beyond North America, particularly towards Haiti and British abolition efforts.