French Revolution: The Haitian Revolution

Under French rule, from 1625-1789, Haiti, or San Domingo during French reign, was one of the most prosperous islands and a huge benefit for France’s economy. Sugar cane was abundant on this island and France sent many African slaves to work on plantations established there. In 1791 a slave revolt broke out when the Haitians learned about the French revolution. This was the only successful slave revolt in history. From this success there was also an immense downfall, and what was once one of the richest islands of the 18th century, is now the poorest country in the world. Many forces have made an impact to create the poverty in Haiti today. France’s fiscal demands after Haiti’s independence crippled the nation and forced them into bankruptcy
Specifically Papa Doc’s reign caused terror and turmoil in Haiti. In 1964 he declared himself president for life. During his era in power he would appoint henchmen to secretly kill Haitians who opposed him. He often would leave their severed heads on posts outside buildings to put terror in the minds of his people. Like many corrupt regimes he would use his people’s tax money to support personal expenses and motives, instead of creating roads and buildings to support trade and economic growth. Not only did he use tax money from his people, but also abused the foreign aid from several countries. This caused many of them to pull their funds, the United States included. This act caused a downfall in Haiti, and many people were now starving, homeless, and without aid from their government. The Duvalier's regime contributes to 45 percent of Haitian debt today. The corruption of Haiti’s governing bodies has contributed to the poverty of the country,
Some believe the effects of erosion combined with the mass deforestation of haiti has been a leading cause in Haiti’s poverty; making farmers land barren. Another attribute to Haitian poverty is prejudice towards their national religion. Many countries refused to trade or associate with Haiti as a result of their practice in voodoo, which coincides with a relation to the devil. Although both instances are true main sources of poverty in Haiti are a result of French demands, corrupt government, and natural