- Inequality and oppression: Saint-Domingue was a brutal slave society, where over 500,000 enslaved Africans performed back-breaking labor on sugar plantations. They were subjected to harsh treatment, extreme poverty, and violence. The colonists, who were mostly French, enjoyed immense wealth and power, while the enslaved population was denied basic rights and freedoms. This disparity created deep-seated resentment and a desire for liberation among the enslaved.
- Inspiration from the French Revolution: In 1789, the French Revolution broke out, spreading ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity throughout the world. The enslaved people of Saint-Domingue took notice of these principles and began to demand rights and freedoms similar to those enjoyed by their white counterparts. They were inspired by the rhetoric of "liberty, equality, and fraternity," and saw an opportunity to overturn the oppressive system that had enslaved them.
- Leadership of Toussaint Louverture: The revolution was skillfully led by Toussaint Louverture, a former enslaved man who possessed incredible military skills and strategic thinking. Louverture played a pivotal role in uniting diverse factions of the enslaved population, as well as gaining the support of some free people of color and even a small number of white colonists who sympathized with the cause of freedom. Under his leadership, the enslaved people of Saint-Domingue fought bravely against the French colonial forces.
- Geopolitical factors: The French Revolution had left France in a state of turmoil and the country was also engaged in wars with several European powers. This weakened the French hold on their colonies, including Saint-Domingue, and provided an opportune moment for the enslaved population to rise up against their oppressors.
- International support: The Haitian Revolution received support from other nations opposed to slavery and colonialism, including Great Britain and Spain. These countries provided military assistance, supplies, and diplomatic backing to the revolutionaries, weakening the French position in the conflict.
In summary, the Haitian Revolution was fueled by the oppressive conditions endured by the enslaved population, the inspiration of the French Revolution, the leadership of Toussaint Louverture, geopolitical factors, and international support. These elements combined to create a powerful force that ultimately led to the successful overthrow of French colonial rule and the establishment of an independent Haiti.