[John Russwurm?] AMs., [ca. 1828]

Toussaint L'Overture,
The principal chief in the Revolution of St. Domingo.

Civil wars and revolutions afford favourable opportunities
for the expansion of latent talent, and often elevate to sta=
tions of importance those who seemed little qualified to per-
form any duties except those of a subordinate character.
The principal leader of the Blacks in the first commo=
tions of St. Domingo, was Jean Franocis. To whom this chief were
afterwards added several others, the most convenient of
whom were Biaskon, Boukmant, and Rigaud.
[?] whereof who These were all negroes, displaying great personal
bravery and military skill, and, in some cases, a depth
of political prudence, but when Toussaint L'Overture
came forwoord [in?] public life, he soon attained the
pre=eminence above them all. The part which he acted
in the affairs of the island, was so conspicuous, and his
character so remarkable, that some particulars con=
cerning him can hardly fail of being interesting.

Some have asserted that Toussaint was born
in Africa, but those who appear best informed, say
that he was born in a state of slavery, about
the year 1745, on the plantation of Count de Noé
in the northern province of St. Domingo, not far from
Cape Francais. It is reported that he displayed pe-
culiar benevolence towards brute animals, and possessed
a patience of temper which scarcely any thing could