Description
[ABOLITION OF SLAVERY].
Decree of the National Convention, dated the 16th day of Pluviôse, Year II of the French Republic, one and indivisible, abolishing the slavery of Black people in the colonies.
Paris: National Executive Printing Office at the Louvre, Year II of the Republic. — In-4, 237 x 185: 2 pp., (1 blank folio). In sheets.
First edition of the first decree abolishing slavery in all French colonies, passed by the Convention on 4 February 1794.
It was worded as follows: ‘The National Convention declares that the enslavement of Black people in all the colonies is abolished; consequently, it decrees that all men, without distinction of colour, resident in the colonies, are French citizens, and shall enjoy all the rights guaranteed by the Constitution. ”
Although unevenly enforced, this decree was, unfortunately, soon repealed or revoked.
A copy as published, including a reproduction of Gohier’s signature and the red seal ‘In the name of the French Republic’.
See original version (French)
Auto-translation. Refer to original language for legal validity.
About the sale
Claude Mozis Library – Black Africa and the African diaspora
Auction location
Auction time
10/21/2026 at 2:00 PM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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