The leader of the Haitian Revolution that gained independence from France was Toussaint L'Ouverture. A former enslaved person, he emerged as a key figure in the revolt against French colonial rule in the late 18th century. L'Ouverture led a successful military campaign that ultimately abolished slavery in Haiti and established it as a free republic. His leadership and strategies were pivotal during the revolution, which culminated in Haiti declaring independence in 1804. Despite facing numerous challenges, including betrayal and conflict among revolutionary leaders, L'Ouverture's legacy as a symbol of freedom and resistance endures.