Speech for the Colonial Committee of the National Assembly
Antoine-Pierre Barnave wanted to exempt French colonies from the Constitution as a means of maintaining the production of the colonial products. His proposals were adopted without being debated by the National Assembly. The French revolution provoked a considerable reflection on the society by classes and gender lines. French nation was focused on supporting its commerce and preserving its colonies to favor their prosperity. The nation warned against the abolishment of the colonies since the sources of prosperity would reduce, and the nation would import at a higher price from the foreigners (Geggus, David 1300). Additionally, misery would increase in the nation and most of the workers and the hardworking citizens would pass from the state of ease to a deplorable situation. Agriculture and financial sector would also collapse after the abolishment of the colonies.
Most of the people in the colonies would become slaves, and the human rights would no longer be respected as a result of the abolition of the colonies. There would be no intention to introduce innovations into both direct or indirect commerce between France andits colonies. This would leave the slave trade untouched and thus put the colonists and their possessions under the special protection of the nation (Geggus, David1297). Due to the extensive anxiety by the planters to establish greater independence from Paris, the citizens from the colonies declared that there was no need to pursue the motives. Colonies were not treated appropriately and were sidelined when decision making decisions. There was an attitude change because the colonies had contributed significantly to the success of France. The colonies started being valued and would advocate for the respect of the human rights. In conclusion, the national assembly viewed the citizens from the colonies and the French nation as being equal.
Work Cited
Geggus, David. “Racial equality, slavery, and colonial secession during the Constituent Assembly.” The American Historical Review 94.5 (1989): 1290-1308.