Abolition of Slavery

The abolition of slavery during the French Revolution took shape against the backdrop of transformative social and political changes. Initially, the 1789 Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen (which established freedom and equality) did not immediately address the issue of slavery, highlighting the initial reluctance to extend these principles universally. However, growing pressures from various quarters prompted the revolutionary government to rethink its stance.

The National Convention took a preliminary step towards abolition on 4 February 1794 (16 Pluviôse Year II in the French Revolutionary calendar), formally outlawing slavery in all French colonies. This decision was influenced by both the ongoing slave rebellions in the colonies (notably in Saint-Domingue, present-day Haiti) and the ideological commitment to liberty and equality. Nonetheless, the abolition decree faced resistance and was not effectively enforced across all colonies. It is important to note that, in certain areas, it remained largely symbolic without successful immediate implementation.

This legislative advancement was partly propelled by the influence of key revolutionary figures such as Jean-Baptiste Belley (a former slave and prominent representative of Saint-Domingue) as well as idealistic deputies in the National Convention. The economic considerations also played a significant role, as the colonies' production needs and the metropole's economic interests created a conflicting scenario.

Despite the promising actions of the revolutionary government, the process of abolition encountered setbacks. In 1802, under the rule of Napoleon Bonaparte, slavery was reinstated in the French colonies. This decision underscored the wavering commitment and the pragmatic approach dictated by economic and political exigencies of the time. The re-institution of slavery highlighted the complexities and contradictions inherent in the revolutionary period when ideological purity often clashed with practical governance.

The final abolition of slavery in French territories would not be realized until later in the 19th century, with the definitive decree passing on 27 April 1848 by the French Second Republic. The trajectory of abolition during the revolutionary era, therefore, serves as a testament to both the potential and the limitations of revolutionary ideals when confronted with entrenched economic and social structures.

• The abolition of slavery in French colonies came about a decade after the Revolution, with the decree of 4 February 1794 (which abolished slavery in all French colonies).
• Prominent revolutionary leaders like Maximilien Robespierre supported the abolition of slavery, arguing for the equality of all men; however, the immediate practical implementation faced significant resistance.
• The Haitian Revolution (1791-1804) was influenced by the ideals of the French Revolution but led to the first successful slave revolt that resulted in the establishment of a free state.
• Although slavery was formally abolished in 1794, it was not until 27 April 1848 that slavery was permanently curtailed in French colonies, reflecting the ongoing societal struggle against entrenched interests.
• The abolitionist movement gained momentum during the Revolutionary period, fueled by pamphlets and proclamations that highlighted the moral implications of slavery, influencing public opinion and revolutionary rhetoric.