Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, Manuscripts, Archives and Rare Books Division

Louisianans feared the introduction of black people from Saint Domingue, whom they suspected had been actively involved in the revolution and would spread ideas of freedom and equality among African Americans. On July 12, 1804, Louisiana Governor William C. C. Claiborne wrote, "All vessels with Slaves on board are Stopped at Plaquemines, and not permitted to pass without my consent - This is done to prevent the bringing in of Slaves that have been concerned in the insurrection of St. Domingo; but while any importations are admitted, many bad characters will be introduced. The Citizens of Louisiana are greatly apprehensive of the West Indian Negroes, but no effectual stop can at present be put to their introduction."