- In the 1790s, the Haitian Revolution began as a slave rebellion led by Toussaint Louverture. The French colonists faced strong resistance from the enslaved population and the revolutionary forces.
2. French Revolution:
- The turmoil of the French Revolution in 1789 weakened France's authority and resources, as the country grappled with internal challenges and political instability.
3. British and Spanish Intervention:
- Britain and Spain, rivals of France, supported the Haitian rebels and provided military assistance to weaken French control over the island.
4. Military Campaigns:
- Toussaint Louverture and the Haitian forces launched successful military campaigns against the French troops, defeating them in several battles.
5. Proclamation of Independence:
- On January 1, 1804, Haiti declared its independence from France. Jean-Jacques Dessalines, a key leader of the revolution, became the first emperor of Haiti.
6. Napoleon's Failed Expedition:
- In an attempt to reassert French control, Napoleon Bonaparte sent an expeditionary force to Saint Domingue in 1802. However, the French forces faced fierce resistance, tropical diseases, and a harsh environment.
7. Yellow Fever and Disease:
- Yellow fever and other tropical diseases ravaged the French army, decimating their ranks and making it difficult to maintain control of the island.
8. Withdrawal of French Forces:
- Due to the heavy losses and the inability to subdue the Haitian forces, the French troops were eventually withdrawn from Saint Domingue in 1803.
9. Recognition of Haitian Independence:
- In 1825, France officially recognized Haiti's independence, agreeing to pay an indemnity for the loss of its colony.
These factors contributed to France's loss of control over the Caribbean island of Saint Domingue, which eventually led to the establishment of the independent nation of Haiti.