Slaves in Paris

Discover the untold stories of resilience and struggle in Slaves in Paris by Miranda Frances Spieler, published by Harvard University Press in 2025. This compelling hardback, spanning 256 pages, delves into the lives of enslaved individuals who sought refuge in Paris, believing it to be a sanctuary of freedom. Instead, they faced the harsh reality of being hunted, arrested, and deported. Spieler meticulously explores the biographies of these brave souls from Africa, the West Indies, and the Indian Ocean, illuminating the emergence of a new racialized legal culture during the final years of the Old Regime. This enlightening social history not only sheds light on a dark chapter of the past but also invites readers to reflect on the complexities of freedom and identity. Don’t miss the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of this vital aspect of history.