On 20 May 1802, Napoleon Bonaparte enacted a law reinstating slavery across the French colonies, a significant reversal from the earlier abolition that had been established during the French Revolution in 1794. This law was designed to restore order and economic growth in colonies, particularly in the sugar-producing islands of the Caribbean, which were vital to France's economic interests. The decision reflected both the economic pressures faced by France post-revolution and Napoleon's broader ambitions of empire-building, demonstrating a pragmatic approach to governance that prioritized financial gain over the principles of liberty and equality that had originally inspired the abolition of slavery.

The reinstatement of slavery had profound implications for the enslaved populations, who had very recently tasted freedom. The law was met with resistance from former slaves and abolitionists alike, leading to uprisings and unrest in various parts of the colonies. Notably, the struggle for freedom in Saint-Domingue, now Haiti, culminated in a successful revolution against French rule, which was directly influenced by the unfolding events in France. This reinstatement not only impacted the French colonies but also resonated through abolitionist movements in Europe and the Americas, igniting debates over human rights and the moral legitimacy of slavery.

Napoleon's decision thus represents a critical juncture in the history of slavery, encapsulating the tensions between economic interests and ethical considerations. As a result, the reinstatement led to a complex legacy; while it aimed to re-establish France's colonial dominance, it also fueled resistance that would eventually contribute to the movement for abolition worldwide. The long-term consequences of this law affected colonial policies and shaped slave resistance movements, leaving a lasting impact on the societies involved for generations to come.