André-Daniel Laffon de Ladébat

author

André-Daniel Laffon de Ladébat

1746–1829

A Bordeaux merchant and reformer who became one of the French Revolution’s notable moderate voices, he argued against colonial slavery well before abolition became law. His life also took a dramatic turn through high office, imprisonment, and exile in French Guiana.

1 Audiobook

Discours sur la nécessité et les moyens de détruire l'esclavage dans les colonies

Discours sur la nécessité et les moyens de détruire l'esclavage dans les colonies

by André-Daniel Laffon de Ladébat

About the author

Born in Bordeaux on November 30, 1746, André-Daniel Laffon de Ladébat was a French financier, shipowner, politician, abolitionist, and philanthropist. Raised in a Protestant merchant family, he built a reputation for seriousness in finance and public life, while also taking part in the intellectual circles of Bordeaux.

He is especially remembered for a 1788 discourse calling for the abolition of slavery in the colonies, arguing on both moral and economic grounds. During the Revolution, he served in the Legislative Assembly and later became president of the Council of Ancients. A moderate figure, he defended the royal family during the tensions of 1792, was imprisoned during the Terror, and after the coup of 18 Fructidor was deported to French Guiana, where he spent more than two years in exile.

Later in life, Ladébat continued to write on finance, political economy, and social questions. His career reflects the upheavals of revolutionary France, but also a steady concern with public service and humanitarian reform, which helps explain why he is still remembered today.