Has the International Relations Models employed with Haiti contributed to its current state of poverty?
By rjeanmarie
-
Spain cedes western part of Hispaniola to the French; becomes Haiti
-
Pearl of the Antilles
In 1789, Haiti was producing 75% of the world's sugar and was the leading producer in cotton tobacco and a number of other natural resources. Haiti was, in fact, the source of 20% of France's wealth. This colony was nicknamed the "Pearl of the Antilles" and was the jewel of the French empire. -
Period: to
Revolution Ensues
Revolt begins and war ensues. -
Thomas Jefferson predicts
As Vice President, Thomas Jefferson shared his fear that the Haitians' revolution would inspire slaves in the United States to revolt. He urged Congress to end trade with them and was denied due to the amount of wealth Haiti offered. -
Toussaint L'ouverture Conquers Haiti, Abolishes Slavery and Rises as Leader of Haiti
Former Slave turned Guerilla Leader conquers Haiti, abolishes slavery and proclaims himself as the governor-general -
France fails to conquer Haiti's interior
led by Napoleon's brother in law -
Independence
Haiti declares its independence and becomes a republic. Haiti officially takes the place as a country that has held the only successful slave rebellion. -
France returns with threats of invading and re-enslaving Haiti
In 1825, France returned with warships surrounding Haiti. They threatened that if Haiti did not pay them in reparations (for the slaves they lost in the revolution and potential profit), they would invade and re-enslave Haiti. The total came up to approximately 22 billion dollars in today's money.This was, in essence, blackmail. -
Period: to
U.S. Occupation of Haiti
Fearful that their land and property was in danger the US occupies Haiti. -
Francois Duvalier aks Papa Doc proclaims power and names himself president for life
-
Baby Doc becomes "President for Life"
Papa Doc dies and his 19 year old son comes to power -
Baby Doc flees
-
The Rise of A Potential Savior
In 1990, Haiti had its first chance at a true democratic election; this was their first free election and an opportunity to pick their president. Aristide won with 67% of the vote. -
Tragic Earthquake
A series of earthquakes devastates the already fragile infrastructure of Haiti -
Michel Martelly takes office as president
Martelly wins presidency democratically
