Main content
Sorry, this episode is not currently available

4. Reforms

Episode 4 of 5

Toussaint makes challenging reforms across society before approving his own nomination to be governor. Read by Adrian Lester.

Toussaint Louverture's sweeping reforms of both public and private activity help to bring about huge rises in productivity and exports, but his authoritative leadership style inspires rebellions, led by his nephew Moyse.

Toussaint shows no mercy to the rebels and verbally attacks most groups in society, outlining their shortcomings.

Will this combination of force and authoritarianism be sufficient to strengthen and protect the colony?

Written by Sudhir Hazareesingh

Abridged by Libby Spurrier

Read by Adrian Lester

Producer: Celia de Wolff

A Pier production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in November 2020.

14 minutes

Last on

Fri 4 Apr 202503:30
BBC Radio 4 Extra

More episodes

Previous

3. Authority

Next

5. Defending Saint-Domingue

See all episodes from Black Spartacus by Sudhir Hazareesingh

Broadcasts

  • Thu 19 Nov 202009:45
    BBC Radio 4 FM
  • Fri 20 Nov 202000:30
    BBC Radio 4
  • Thu 3 Apr 202508:30
    BBC Radio 4 Extra
  • Thu 3 Apr 202513:30
    BBC Radio 4 Extra
  • Thu 3 Apr 202519:30
    BBC Radio 4 Extra
  • Fri 4 Apr 202503:30
    BBC Radio 4 Extra