Freetown, the capital of Sierra Leone, was established in 1792 as a settlement for freed slaves, named by the American settlers who sought freedom from oppression. The initiative was led by British abolitionists, including John Clarkson and Granville Sharp, who aimed to create a safe haven for Black Loyalists from Nova Scotia and impoverished Black populations from London.

The first group of settlers, approximately 400 individuals, arrived in 1787 but faced hostility from local tribes, leading to their resettlement. In 1792, around 1,100 former American slaves successfully established Freetown after enduring difficult conditions in Nova Scotia.

Notable figures among these early settlers included Cuffy, a leader of the Black Loyalists, and Thomas Peters, who advocated for their rights. The settlement also welcomed Jamaican Maroons in 1800, enriching its cultural diversity.

Freetown became a refuge for recaptives—Africans liberated from illegal slave ships by the British Royal Navy. This influx contributed to the emergence of the Creole population, which blended various cultural backgrounds.

Today, Freetown stands as a vibrant city that reflects its rich history as a sanctuary for freed slaves and a testament to resilience against adversity.