Léger-Félicité Sonthonax

Léger-Félicité Sonthonax was a French lawyer and revolutionary who played a key role during the Haitian Revolution in the late 18th century. Serving as a commissioner for France in Saint-Domingue (now Haiti), he sought to abolish slavery and promote equality, often working against both colonial authorities and local planters. His policies aimed to free enslaved people and establish political rights, which made him a controversial figure—seen as a hero by abolitionists and as a villain by pro-slavery forces. His efforts significantly influenced the path toward Haitian independence and the end of slavery in the region.