Haiti: The Multimillion Indemnity to France

Introduction

• Independence of Haiti: 220 years ago, Haiti became the first independent nation in Latin America.
• Slave revolt: The only successful slave revolt in history.
• Current poverty and crisis: Haiti is the poorest country in the Americas and is experiencing a political and social crisis without a president.

History of Colonization

From Ayiti to Hispaniola to Saint-Domingue

• Arrival of Columbus: Christopher Columbus arrived in 1492, naming the island Hispaniola.
• French control: France took control in 1665, naming it Saint-Domingue.

The Pearl of the Antilles

• Wealth of Saint-Domingue: Massive production of sugar, coffee, tobacco, cocoa, cotton, and indigo.
• Slave trade: High mortality rates among slaves, with an average lifespan of 21 years.

Revolution and War of Independence

Revolution of les gens de couleur

• Inspiration from the French Revolution: Slaves and free people questioning their rights.
• Revolt of 1791: Led by Boukman, they destroyed plantations and executed whites.

Independence of Haiti

• Expulsion of the French: Took 12 years, declaring independence on January 1, 1804.
• Leadership of Dessalines: Proclaimed the death of all whites and conducted the Haitian massacre.

The Indemnity to France

Dead end

• Royal Ordinance of 1825: Haiti had to pay an indemnity of 150 million francs to France.
• Reason for the indemnity: Compensate French plantation owners for the loss of lands and slaves.

The Debt of Independence

• Loans and debt spiral: Haiti took loans to pay the indemnity.
• 122 years of payments: Concluded in 1947, leaving the country without resources for development.

Reflections

• Long-term impact: The debt and historical conditions have left Haiti in a vulnerable position.
• Global recognition: Haiti continues to struggle to overcome the consequences of its independence and debt.