How did the Slave Revolution in Haiti in 1804 motivate slave rebellions in the United States?

The Haitian slave rebellion in 1804 was part of the Haitian Revolution, which lasted from 1791-1804. This anti-colonial rebellion was successful, and had an impact on the institution of slavery in the Americas, especially the United States. The rebellion resulted in the founding of the free state of Haiti, in what was previously known as the French colony of Saint-Domingue. In 1804, the revolution ended with the massacre of much of the remaining white population.

This revolution had a significant impact on the Atlantic world, and as news of it traveled to the United States, many slaves or abolitionists in America were motivated to engage in similar rebellions with the purpose of freeing slaves of the United States. By seeing a successful slave revolt so close to the United States, it was clear that when united, the enslaved population could rise up against those that claimed authority over them.

There are several mass-slave rebellions often referenced in American history that took place in the nineteenth century after the rebellions in Haiti began, but prior to the abolition of slavery:

1. 
   German Cost Uprising, 1811 – a slave driver named Charles Deslondes and 25 other slaves attacked the family and owner of the plantation they worked on in the Orleans area. The owner escaped, but the slaves used the plantation as a base for further rebellion. The rebels grew to great numbers, and after two days, many were imprisoned, killed, sold, or returned to their masters.


2. 
   Nat Turner’s Rebellion, 1831 – a slave named Nathaniel Turner and 70 other slaves and free blacks attacked the homes and families of those who had enslaved them in Virginia. It is estimated approximately 60 white people were killed before the rebellion ended and Turner went into hiding. Turner was executed with many followers; many of the rebels were sold into other regions.