This is an astonishing story and one that I’d never heard of before. The book has been quite a revelation and a real eye opener.

It’s an emotive subject and there are some harrowing descriptions. But they’re true and valid and the fact that I found some parts quite distressing shows the strength of the writing and bad history should never be forgotten. Although this is a reprint, it feels very relevant and the writing is lively and informed. Very little feels dated and I wish I’d read this book decades ago.

The story is basically that of Revolution on Haiti. But it was by black slaves and the only time they’ve successfully taken over. I knew nothing of the history of Jacobins, so have found that background informed and fascinating. I was also unaware of the colonisation history of Haiti. The French predominated and acquired land and property. Whilst they followed an indolent and privileged lifestyle of the rich, the used black African slaves on plantations and for other labour intensive works. They also cleared the streets of Paris to provide females who were effectively deported to Haiti to serve in brothels.

It feels like a definitive account of colonisation and exploitation. One that went on and continues the world over. It’s a remarkable read and I’m so pleased I requested this title.