Toussaintl Overture

Toussaint l'Overture (1743-1803), the Negro chief, began his career by helping to drive the Spaniards out of Hayti (q.v.) In reward for his services the French Revolutionary Government raised him by gradual steps to the headship of the army in the island. He made use of his position to promote good government, but when Bonaparte attempted to re-establish slavery resisted. The result was that he was betrayed to the French, and died in the fortress of Joux in France.