*One of the most revolutionary social reforms of the jacobians was the abolition of slavery in french colonies. * Throughout the 18th centhere was little criticism of slavery in france. The national assembly held long debates on rights of men amd whether they should be extended to all french subjects including those in french colonies. It did not pass any laws, fearing opposition from businessman whose incomes depend on slave trade. *In 1794 it was finally the conversation which legislated to free all slaves in french overseas possessions. * It was however a short-term measure because in 1804 napolean reintroduced slavery. * Plantation owners understood their freedom including the right to enslave African negros in pursuit of their economic interests. Slavery was finally abolished in 1848.

Slavery was a common practice in France until the 19th century. It was first introduced in the country in the 17th century by the French East India Company and was later extended to other French colonies. However, the abolition of slavery in France was a gradual process that took place over several years.


In 1794, during the revolutionary period, the National Convention abolished slavery in France and all its colonies. This was a significant step towards the eradication of slavery in French territories, and it was welcomed by abolitionists across the world. However, this law was short-lived as it was revoked by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802.


The second abolition of slavery in France took place in 1848, during the Second Republic. This time, slavery was abolished permanently, and it was no longer legal to own slaves in French territories. This law was passed after a long period of intense campaigning by abolitionists, who argued that slavery was incompatible with the principles of the French Revolution.


Several factors contributed to the abolition of slavery in France. One of the most significant was the influence of the Enlightenment, which emphasized the importance of individual liberty and human rights. This led to a growing awareness of the injustice of slavery and a push for its abolition.

Another factor was the rise of the abolitionist movement, which gained momentum in the 18th century. Abolitionists used a range of tactics to raise awareness of the horrors of slavery, including publishing pamphlets, organizing protests, and lobbying politicians.

Finally, the economic cost of slavery was also a factor in its abolition. As the Industrial Revolution took hold, it became clear that slavery was an inefficient and expensive way of producing goods. This led to a shift towards wage labor, which was seen as a more cost-effective alternative.


The abolition of slavery in France was a long and difficult process, but it was ultimately successful. Today, France is a country that is committed to the ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity, and it is a leader in the fight against slavery and human trafficking.