Burn! (re-release) 2004

Here is a rephrased version of the given section:

In 1844, Sir William Walker (agent provocateur) is dispatched by the British Admiralty to Queimada, a Portuguese colony in the Lesser Antilles, with the aim of exploiting its economic potential. The government’s strategy involves orchestrating an uprising among enslaved Africans against the Portuguese regime, which would be replaced by a puppet government dominated by white planters amenable to British interests.

Upon his arrival on the island, Walker forges a connection with José Dolores, a charismatic figure who becomes the leader of the rebellion. Walker persuades leading landowners to reject Portuguese rule and encourages Dolores’s movement, ultimately succeeding in overthrowing the regime. A puppet government is established, headed by Teddy Sanchez, an idealistic but ineffective revolutionary.

Walker convinces Dolores to recognize the new regime and surrender his arms in exchange for the abolition of slavery. Having fulfilled his mission, Walker departs for Indochina, leaving behind a legacy that will prove short-lived.

Six years later, in 1848, Dolores becomes disillusioned with the new government’s collaboration with the Antilles Royal Sugar Company and launches a second rebellion aimed at expelling British influence from Queimada. The uprising endures for six years until 1854, when Walker is recalled by the Admiralty to quell the revolt and pacify the island.

However, President Sanchez is uncooperative in his efforts, leading Walker to oust him and execute him in a coup. A regime entirely beholden to the company is established, and British forces are invited to the island. Under Walker’s guidance, they swiftly put down the rebellion and capture Dolores.

Despite their past camaraderie, Walker attempts to save Dolores’s life but is rebuffed by the rebel leader, who believes that freedom must be earned rather than received. The government subsequently executes Dolores by hanging. In the aftermath, Walker is consumed by guilt as he prepares to depart Queimada.

As if haunted by his past, a man greets him in the same manner as José Dolores initially did upon Walker’s arrival on the island. However, instead of a warm welcome, this individual strikes Walker down with a deadly blow. As Walker lies dying, he is surrounded by the accusatory and passive glances of the impoverished people at the port.