Subject: [History] Revolt of the Redimusu (part 1)

Article:

When the Redimusu ("Black Rangers") revolted in 1805 the colony was stunned. However, Suriname was under British control (1804-1816). When Jan Nepveu became governor in 1770, he took several measures to halt the slaves from running away from the plantations. He suggested the establishment of 's lands Vrijcorps' (Country's Free Corps). They consisted of 125 and 150 manumitted slaves and mulats. They had white 'conducteurs' to lead them. They were at first used around Paramaribo. In 1803 they became part of the standing army.

On July 9, 1772 the "Corps Vrije Afro-Surinamers" or black rangers was established. The former owners of the slaves were paid prices of fl 800 to fl 3,400 as a compensation. The slaves were declared 'free' and ordered to help stop, chase,, attack, capture runaway slaves and for this they received fl 9 per month. They received a pair of pants, a cap (first green then red). They were equiped with a rifle and rations when on patrols. They received land big enough to build a house and start a garden plot. They also had visiting rights to go to their former plantation to see their family.










Met dank aan Albert Buys