Why is Marie-Joseph Angelique significant?

Marie-Joseph Angélique was a significant figure in 18th-century colonial history, known for her role as a slave who escaped and later was accused of setting fire to the city of Montreal in 1734. Her trial and execution highlighted the brutal realities of slavery and the complexities of race and gender in colonial society. Angélique's story has become a symbol of resistance against oppression and has sparked discussions about the legacy of slavery in Canada. Her life and the circumstances surrounding her trial continue to resonate in contemporary conversations about race and justice.