Toussaint L’Ouverture: A Biography and Autobiography by John Relly Beard is a detailed and enlightening account of the life of the influential leader of the Haitian Revolution. The biography delves into Toussaint’s humble beginnings as a slave and his rise to becoming a prominent figure in the fight for Haitian independence.

Beard’s writing is engaging and well-researched, painting a vivid portrait of Toussaint’s personality and leadership qualities. The book also provides valuable insights into the political and social climate of the time, offering a comprehensive understanding of the events that shaped Toussaint’s life and legacy.

Overall, Toussaint L’Ouverture is a compelling read that sheds light on a lesser-known figure in history and highlights his significant contributions to the fight for freedom and equality. This biography is a must-read for anyone interested in Caribbean history, the abolitionist movement, or the struggle for independence in the Americas.

Book Description:
François-Dominique Toussaint L’Ouverture (1743-1803) rose to fame in 1791 during the Haitian struggle for independence. In this revolt, he led thousands of slaves on the island of Hispañola to fight against the colonial European powers of France, Spain and England. The former slaves ultimately established the independent state of Haiti and expelled the Europeans. L’Ouverture eventually became the governor and Commander-In-Chief of Haiti before recognizing and submitting to French rule in 1801. In June of 1802, L’Ouverture was arrested by French forces and taken to France where he was imprisoned at Joux. There he penned his autobiography “. . . to render to the French government an exact account of my conduct.” L’Ouverture died in prison on April 7, 1803 from pneumonia. Although L’Ouverture died a captive of the French, the revolution he led was historically perhaps the most significant world event opposing slavery. It precipitated a re-examination--among the major European powers as well as those in the new world--of the right of all mankind to be free and self-governing. John Relly Beard, an English minister, wrote The Life of Toussaint L’Ouverture and published it in London in 1853. Ten years later, the biography was re-published and augmented to include L’Ouverture’s 35-page translated autobiography--along with other documents and contributions by public officials--and was re-published in Boston. This reconstituted edition was titled, Toussaint L’Ouverture: A Biography and Autobiography. (Introduction by James K. White)