Summary
In 1791, the enslaved people of the French colony of Saint-Domingue rose up to overthrow their oppressors and establish a free society. The rebel army defeated the mighty French empire, banned slavery, and established an independent country—the first Black nation in the western hemisphere. Despite a brutally oppressive system, the enslaved people of Saint-Domingue had built their own community and culture. These connections laid the groundwork for a coordinated revolt. After weeks of planning, a new army launched a war to bring liberty and equality to Saint-Domingue. The fighting lasted for 12 years, under two major commanders: Toussaint Louverture, followed by Jean-Jacques Dessalines. In 1804, French forces were driven from the island, a new flag was raised, and the nation of Haiti was born. Press "play" to learn about the most successful slave rebellion in history!
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Teaching resources
Discussion questions
A few questions to talk through after watching Haitian Revolution:
- What is one new thing you learned about haitian revolution?
- Can you explain it to a partner in your own words?
- Where might you see this in the real world?
- What is one question you still have?
Quick work-a-long
Try it:
- Write one sentence explaining haitian revolution.
- Draw or give one example of your own.