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Why did Toussaint Louverture switch his allegiance from Spain to France in 1794?

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Toussaint Louverture stands in a military uniform with a feathered hat, holding a document and sword, with soldiers and a landscape in the background. — Toussaint Louverture A formerly enslaved person who became the leading figure of the Haitian Revolution, Toussaint Louverture helped lay the foundation for Haiti's independence.

Toussaint Louverture shifted his allegiance from Spain to France in May 1794 primarily due to the French National Convention’s decision to abolish slavery throughout its empire.1

While Louverture had previously aligned with Spanish forces to exploit imperial rivalries, he identified as a republican and sought to uphold the revolutionary principles of liberty and legal equality. By 1794, it became clear that France was the only power among the combatants—which included Spain and Britain—that had committed to ending the slave system.12

This strategic and ideological pivot allowed Louverture to secure emancipation across the colony and strengthened his political position. Following his change of allegiance, he was appointed lieutenant governor by the French administration, which helped him expel Spanish forces and eventually defeat British incursions.21