O épico e o trágico na história do Haiti

Abstract

THE AUTHOR presents a critical review of C.L.R. James' book The black Jacobins. Toussaint L'Ouverture and the San Domingo revolution (published in Brazil by Boitempo). James narrates and analyzes the late 18th century slave rebellion in the French colony located in the island of San Domingo as a consequence of the measures taken by the Convention, established after the French Revolution, which emancipated slaves. The author highlights the activities of black leader Toussaint L'Ouverture in the uprising, who after defeating the armies of France, Spain and England, won the governance of the former French colony. James also examines Bonaparte's determination to restore slavery and his decision to send a French expeditionary force commanded by Leclerc that would defeat and imprison Toussaint L'Ouverture - whose companions, Dessalines and others, the Black Jacobins, would continue to fight. Eventually, in 1804, they achieved definite independence, baptizing the country with the native name of Haiti, but the problems that ensued endure to this day.