41 pages • 1 hour read
The Black Jacobins: Toussaint L’Ouverture and the San Domingo Revolution
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Book Brief
428
Book • Nonfiction
Haiti • 1790s
1938
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
First published in 1938, C.L.R. James’s The Black Jacobins: Toussaint L’Ouverture and the San Domingo Revolution examines the Haitian Revolution of 1791-1804, highlighting slave-turned-commander Toussaint L’Ouverture's leadership. The work details life in French San Domingo before the rebellion, the influence of the French Revolution, the rise and fall of Toussaint, and the eventual success of Jean-Jacques Dessalines in establishing a new nation. The analysis emphasizes Marxist principles, Pan-Africanism, and the character of Toussaint as a revolutionary leader. This book includes descriptions of the brutal mistreatment of enslaved individuals.
Informative
Challenging
Contemplative
Dark
Reviews & Readership
7,675 ratings
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Mixed feelings
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Review Roundup
C.L.R. James's The Black Jacobins is widely praised for its thorough historical analysis and compelling narrative on the Haitian Revolution. It highlights the leadership of Toussaint L'Ouverture and critiques colonialism. Some find the dense prose challenging, but its insightful commentary on race and revolution is highly valued.
Who Should Read The Black Jacobins?
Readers who savor The Black Jacobins by C.L.R. James typically have a keen interest in revolutionary history, colonialism, and racial justice. They often appreciate works like Howard Zinn's A People's History of the United States and Eric Hobsbawm's The Age of Revolution, drawn to narratives that challenge mainstream historical accounts.
7,675 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Toussaint L’Ouverture
Toussaint L’Ouverture
Born into slavery in San Domingo, he became a key general and leader in the Haitian Revolution, known for his intelligence and charisma, but did not initially advocate for independence from France.
André Rigaud
André Rigaud
An influential Mulatto leader and former French army officer who played a role in the San Domingo revolution, known for his occasional rivalry with Toussaint L’Ouverture.
Léger-Félicité Sonthonax
Léger-Félicité Sonthonax
A French abolitionist and commissioner during the French Revolution, who was involved in early abolition efforts in San Domingo and briefly aligned with Toussaint L’Ouverture.
Jean-Jacques Dessalines
Jean-Jacques Dessalines
A highly capable and bold military leader in the Haitian slave rebellion, known for his radical approach and ultimate pursuit of independence following Toussaint's deportation.
Étienne Laveaux
Étienne Laveaux
A military official and later governor in San Domingo who collaborated with Toussaint L’Ouverture to defend against external and internal threats, forging a strong partnership with him.
428
Book • Nonfiction
Haiti • 1790s
1938
Adult
18+ years
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