Toussaint L'Overture Leader of the Haitian Revolution

One of the greatest freedom fighting stories that often slips through the cracks is that of Toussaint L'Overture and the Haitian Revolution. May 18th is widely commemorated as Haitian Flag Day, in honor of the culture and Heritage behind the Flag. With respects to that I wanted to reflect on the accomplishments of General L'Overture.

"Brothers and friends, I am Toussaint Louverture; perhaps my name has made itself known to you. I have undertaken vengeance. I want Liberty and Equality to reign in St Domingue. I am working to make that happen. Unite yourselves to us, brothers and fight with us for the same cause..

Your very humble and obedient servant, Toussaint Louverture,

General of the armies of the king, for the public good."

It is believed that L'Overture was born on a Plantation and not freed until the age of 33. After hearing of the French Revolution, many Haitians became determined to increase their rights. In 1791,  he was a leader in the French Slave rebellion in the colony of Saint Domingue against Napoleon Bonaparte's army. What started as willing to negotiate for better conditions of slavery ended up be coming a quest for its complete abolition. Slave revolts rarely resulted in success, however this particular revolt eventually led up to Haitian Independence. L'overture was knowledgeable of many European war tactics and trained and his soldiers with the most up to date and some unconventional methods. He was recognized and respected by the French as a significant Military Leader. Napoleon Bonaparte is said to have lost two thirds of the troops sent there.  By 1794, the New French Government had declared the complete Abolition of Slavery in Haiti. After Slavery was abolished , Toussaint changed his allegiance to the french and wrote a new constitution declaring himself Governor for life in the new formed Colony, and for the first time making Skin Color a non factor in  social Ranking. He Maintained a sizable army and leadership over almost the entire landmass which is known today as Haiti and Dominican Republic. He was eventually captured by French forces sent to restore authority and deported in 1802 to a French Prison where he died of health complications in 1803. Just one year later his Lieutenant kept fighting and eventually declared independence January 1st 1804.  This story  inspired American abolitionists like John Brown, and also many 19th century African Americans ,  in their Fight for Freedom and the abolition of Slavery.