Haiti

Haiti, officially the Republic of Haiti, is a country in the Caribbean on the island of Hispaniola in both the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean. It is located east of Cuba and Jamaica, and south of the Bahamas. Haiti shares the island with the Dominican Republic and is the third largest country in the Caribbean by area. With an estimated population of 11.4 million, it is the most populous country in the Caribbean. The capital and largest city is Port-au-Prince.

The history of Haiti is rich and complex. Originally inhabited by Indigenous peoples, the island was explored by Christopher Columbus in 1492 when he established the first European settlement in the Americas, called La Navidad. The western part of the island became a French colony known as Saint-Domingue, where many enslaved Africans were forced to work on sugarcane plantations. The Haitian Revolution from 1791 to 1804 was a major event that led Haiti to become the first sovereign state in the Caribbean and the first country in the Americas to officially end slavery. This revolution was led by enslaved people who fought for their freedom.

Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, Haiti faced many challenges, including political instability, international isolation, and difficult economic situations. There were times when foreign forces, such as U.S. forces, were involved in the country’s affairs. In more recent years, Haiti has experienced severe crises, including a catastrophic earthquake and a large-scale cholera outbreak. Despite these difficulties, Haiti remains an important member of international organizations such as the United Nations, the Organization of American States, and the Association of Caribbean States. Today, Haiti continues to face economic and political challenges, but it remains a significant part of the Caribbean’s history and culture.

Etymology

The name Haiti comes from the Taíno language, the language of the island's original people. It means "land of high mountains" and was the name the Taíno people used for the whole island of Hispaniola. The name was chosen by the leader Jean-Jacques Dessalines when Haiti became independent from Saint-Domingue, as a way to honor the island's first people.

In French, the name is spelled with a special mark over the "i" and the "H" is not pronounced. In English, people say the name in different ways, but "HAY-ti" is the most common. In Haitian Creole, the country is called Ayiti. Haiti also has other nicknames used by its people, like Ayiti-Toma, Ayiti-Cheri, Tè-Desalin, and Lakay.

History

Main article: History of Haiti

Pre-Columbian era

Main article: Chiefdoms of Hispaniola

The island of Hispaniola, which includes Haiti, has been home to people for about 6,000 years. These early groups are believed to have come from Central or northern South America. They were mostly hunter-gatherers. Later, during the first few centuries before the Common Era, ancestors of the Taino people arrived and began farming and making pottery. By around 600 AD, the Ostionoid culture was well established on the island.

Taino society was organized under leaders called caciques, or chiefs. When Europeans arrived, Hispaniola was divided into five regions, each led by a cacique. These regions were Magua, Marien, Jaragua, Maguana, and Higüey. Taíno culture left behind cave paintings, which are now important symbols and attractions in Haiti. The area around modern Léogâne was once the capital of the Xaraguá caciquedom.

Colonial era

Spanish rule (1492–1625)

Main articles: Columbian Viceroyalty, New Spain, and Captaincy General of Santo Domingo

Explorer Christopher Columbus reached Haiti in 1492 and claimed it for Spain. He set up a small settlement, but relations with the local Taíno people soon turned violent. The Spanish brought diseases from Europe, which caused many Taíno to fall ill and die. They also forced many to work in harsh conditions, which further reduced their numbers. Over time, Spain focused more on other parts of the New World, leaving the western part of Hispaniola less developed. This area was later settled by French explorers.

French rule (1625–1804)

Main articles: Saint-Domingue and French West Indies

France took control of the western part of the island and named it Saint-Domingue. They built large plantations for sugar and coffee, worked by enslaved people brought from Africa. Saint-Domingue became very wealthy and was one of France’s most important colonies. Life for enslaved people was extremely hard, and many tried to escape to form their own communities in the mountains.

Haitian Revolution (1791–1804)

Inspired by ideas of freedom from the French Revolution, enslaved people and free people of color in Saint-Domingue began to demand rights. Tensions grew, leading to conflicts. In 1791, a major slave rebellion began, led by figures like Toussaint Louverture. The rebellion grew until it became a full revolution. Over time, the revolutionaries fought off forces from France, Spain, and Britain. By 1804, they had successfully won independence, making Haiti the first black-led republic in the world.

Independent Haiti

First Empire (1804–1806)

Main articles: First Empire of Haiti and 1804 Haiti massacre

Haiti declared independence on January 1, 1804, under the leadership of Jean-Jacques Dessalines. He became the first emperor of Haiti. However, his rule was short-lived, and he was assassinated in 1806.

State of Haiti, Kingdom of Haiti and the Republic (1806–1820)

Main articles: State of Haiti and Kingdom of Haiti

After Dessalines' death, Haiti split into two parts. The north became a kingdom under Henri Christophe, while the south became a republic led by Alexandre Pétion. Pétion made changes to help ordinary people, such as land reforms. Eventually, the island was reunited under President Jean-Pierre Boyer.

Unification of Hispaniola (1821–1844)

In 1821, Haiti reunified the entire island after Santo Domingo declared independence from Spain. President Boyer tried to revive the economy but faced many challenges. By 1844, the eastern part of the island broke away and became the Dominican Republic.

Loss of the eastern portion of the island

Main article: Dominican War of Independence

In 1844, the Dominican Republic declared independence from Haitian rule. Haitian forces tried to stop this but were unsuccessful. The island was then divided into two separate countries.

Second Empire (1849–1859)

Main article: Second Empire of Haiti

From 1849 to 1859, Haiti was ruled by Emperor Faustin Soulouque. His rule ended when he was overthrown in a revolution led by Fabre Geffrard.

Late 19th century–early 20th century

The years following Soulouque’s rule were unstable, with many changes in leadership. Relations with other countries were sometimes difficult. In the early 1900s, Haiti faced political chaos and heavy debt.

United States occupation (1915–1934)

Main article: United States occupation of Haiti

See also: Slavery in Haiti § Unfree labor during US occupation

In 1915, the United States sent troops to Haiti, taking control of the country’s finances and government. This occupation lasted until 1934. During this time, Haiti saw some improvements in infrastructure, but life remained hard for many people.

Post-occupation era (1934–1957)

After the U.S. left, Haiti faced more political trouble. In 1937, a terrible event happened when many Haitians were killed by forces from the Dominican Republic. Later, Haiti saw the rise of the Duvalier family to power.

Duvalier dynasty (1957–1986)

Main article: Duvalier dynasty

In 1957, François “Papa Doc” Duvalier became president. He ruled with a strong hand and created a secret police force. His son, Jean-Claude “Baby Doc” Duvalier, took over in 1971 and continued many of his father’s policies. Both rulers faced criticism for their harsh methods, and many people suffered under their rule.

Post-Duvalier era (1986–2004)

After Duvalier left in 1986, Haiti went through many changes in leadership. In 1991, Jean-Bertrand Aristide was elected president but was soon overthrown in a coup. With help from the United States, he returned to power in 1994 but faced many challenges. Political unrest continued, and in 2004, Aristide was forced to leave Haiti again.

Post-Aristide era (2004–present)

See also: Haitian crisis (2018–present)

Amidst the political chaos, Haiti faced several natural disasters, including a major earthquake in 2010 that caused widespread damage and loss of life. The country has struggled to recover and build a stable government. Recent years have seen increased violence and economic hardship, making life very difficult for many Haitians.

Geography

Main article: Geography of Haiti

Haiti is a country that makes up the western part of the island called Hispaniola. It is the third largest country in the Caribbean and shares its eastern border with the Dominican Republic. Haiti is very mountainous, with mountains covering much of the land. There are also small coastal plains and river valleys. The highest point in Haiti is Pic la Selle, which stands at 2,680 meters tall.

The country has a tropical climate, but temperatures can change depending on how high up you are. Haiti has several regions, including the Marien Region in the north, the Artibonite Region in the center, and the Xaragua Region in the south. Each region has its own mountains, plains, and rivers. Haiti also includes a few smaller islands nearby.

The climate in Haiti is mostly tropical. In places like Port-au-Prince, temperatures can range from about 23°C to 35°C during different times of the year. There are wet and dry seasons, and sometimes Haiti experiences heavy rains, storms, and flooding.

Haiti sits on top of several fault lines, which means the country can sometimes experience earthquakes. The land also has valuable minerals like gold. Although there are no active volcanoes, Haiti’s forests have been reduced due to cutting down trees for wood and farming.

Main articles: Environment of Haiti and Deforestation in Haiti

Haiti has faced serious problems with soil erosion and loss of forests, which has led to flooding in some areas. Many of Haiti’s forests have disappeared over the past fifty years. Scientists are now working on projects to help restore the land and protect it from future disasters.

Biodiversity

Main article: Wildlife of Haiti

Haiti is home to many different kinds of plants and animals. The country has thousands of plant species, including trees like breadfruit, mango, and mahogany. Animal life includes bats, birds, and reptiles such as iguanas and crocodiles. Some birds and small mammals are found only in Haiti and nearby islands.

Government and politics

Main article: Politics of Haiti

See also: Foreign relations of Haiti

Haiti has a system where both the president and prime minister share power. The president is chosen by voters every five years and cannot serve back-to-back terms. The prime minister is selected by the president from the main party in the National Assembly. Together, they handle the country's leadership.

The National Assembly has two parts: the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies. Senators serve for six years, while deputies serve for four years. They are all chosen by voters. The highest court is the Supreme Court, with judges chosen by the president based on suggestions from the Senate.

Haiti is part of many global groups, like the United Nations and the World Trade Organization.

Administrative divisions

Main article: Administrative divisions of Haiti

Haiti is split into ten large areas called departments. These departments are then divided into smaller parts called arrondissements, communes, and communal sections. Each of these areas has its own elected leaders.

Military and law enforcement

Haiti has a small military and a national police force. The military includes land, sea, and air parts, led by a top officer. The police handle everyday safety and investigations. They have faced big challenges keeping order, especially with recent conflicts.

Law and crime

Main article: Crime in Haiti

Haiti's laws come from an old French system. The country has struggled with corruption and crime. In recent years, violence has grown, making life very hard for many people. The main prison is crowded and unsafe, and many prisoners wait a long time for trials. Sadly, some people have been hurt or displaced by armed groups, and many children cannot go to school. The world community has asked for help to support Haiti during this difficult time.

Economy

Haiti's economy faced big challenges after a major earthquake in 2010 and a disease outbreak. Its economy grew again by 2025, but many people still live in poverty. Most people work in jobs that are not formally registered, and the country struggles with problems like political unrest and poor infrastructure.

Haiti joined a global trade group in 1996 and has tried to open its economy. However, many businesses are controlled by a few powerful companies, making prices high. After some political issues, help from other countries was cut off but later restored. Haiti also gets support from a special oil agreement with Venezuela, which helps with energy needs. Despite having beautiful beaches and mountains, tourism in Haiti is not very developed yet.

The country relies on imports for much of its food and has limited access to electricity. Most people live in simple homes, and many families send children to live with wealthier families to be cared for and educated, though this system can sometimes be unfair. Haiti is known for producing a special plant used in perfumes and has many farmers, but it still needs to import much of its food. The main currency is the Haitian gourde, though US dollars are also accepted.

Demographics

Main article: Demographics of Haiti

In 2018, Haiti had about 10.8 million people. In 2006, half of the people were younger than 20 years old. In 1950, the first official count showed 3.1 million people living there. Haiti has about 350 people for every square kilometer, mostly living in cities, along coasts, and in valleys.

Many people from Haiti live in other countries, especially in the United States, Canada, and France. There are also Haitian communities in the Dominican Republic, Cuba, the Bahamas, and other places. In 2015, about 881,500 people in the United States had Haitian roots.

In 2018, people in Haiti could expect to live about 63.7 years.

Largest cities

Further information: List of cities in Haiti

Languages

The two official languages of Haiti are French and Haitian Creole. French is mainly used for writing, government work, schools, and business. It is spoken by about 42% of Haitians. Haitian Creole is spoken by almost everyone. French is more common among wealthier people and in business. English and Spanish are also spoken by some Haitians, especially near the border with the Dominican Republic or by people who have lived in other countries. Most Haitians speak only Creole and French, with many knowing only Creole.

Creole, also called Kreyòl, has become standardized and is used by all Haitians. It comes from French but has grammar from some West African languages. It also includes words from Taino, Spanish, and Portuguese.

Religion

Main article: Religion in Haiti

In 2010, a study showed most Haitians were Catholics (56.8%) or Protestants (29.6%). Some people did not follow any religion (10.6%), and a few followed other beliefs (3%).

Another report from 2018 said 55% were Catholics and 29% were Protestants, including Baptists, Pentecostals, and Seventh-day Adventists. Some experts think the number of Protestants is even higher. Many Haitians mix beliefs, including practices from Vodou, which has West African roots. Though only about 2.1% officially follow Vodou, many more include its ideas in their everyday lives. Vodou was recognized as an official religion in Haiti in 2003.

Education

Main article: Education in Haiti

Haiti's schools follow the French system. Most primary schools are run by groups like churches or charities, not the government. By 2011, about 88% of children were enrolled in primary school, with equal numbers of boys and girls. Charities such as Food for the Poor and Haitian Health Foundation help build schools and supply materials. In 2022, about 62% of adults could read and write.

After secondary school, students can go to universities or other higher education schools, like the University of Haiti. There are also special schools for medicine and law. Brown University works with hospitals in Haiti to teach health care.

Health

Main article: Health in Haiti

In 2012, about 60% of children under 10 had vaccines, lower than in many other countries. Diseases like infections of the intestines, HIV/AIDS, and breathing illnesses are common. Many children get sick from dirty water and parasites. About 1.7% of people have HIV/AIDS. There is also a lot of tuberculosis and malaria.

Most homes do not have clean water, and many people live in poor conditions, which leads to many health problems. After a big earthquake in 2010, a new large hospital was built using solar power.

Culture

Main article: Culture of Haiti

Haiti has a special and unique culture that mixes traditions from France and Africa, along with influences from Spain and the original people of the island.

National holidays and festivals

Further information: Public holidays in Haiti

The Haitian Carnival is one of the most exciting carnivals in the Caribbean. Since 2010, the government has held it in a different city each year, not just in the capital. Before the big National Carnival, there is the Jacmel Carnival, which happens a week earlier in February or March.

Rara is a joyful festival celebrated before Easter. This festival also inspires a special kind of Carnival music.

Architecture

See also: List of World Heritage Sites in the Caribbean

Haiti has amazing monuments like the Sans-Souci Palace and the Citadelle Laferrière. These were named a World Heritage Site in 1982. They are located in the Northern Massif du Nord, in the National History Park, and were built soon after Haiti became independent from France. The Citadelle Laferrière is the largest fortress in the Americas, built between 1805 and 1820. Some Haitians call it the eighth wonder of the world.

The Institute for the Protection of National Heritage has taken care of 33 important monuments and the old part of Cap-Haïtien.

Jacmel, an old city, was also named a possible World Heritage Site but was badly damaged in an earthquake in 2010.

Museums

One special piece in the Musée du Panthéon National Haïtien in Port-au-Prince is the anchor from Christopher Columbus's big ship, the Santa María.

Art

Haitian art stands out, especially in paintings and sculptures. The art is bright and full of life, often showing everyday things like food, nature, markets, animals, dances, and celebrations. Because of Haiti's rich history and strong ties to Africa, symbols in the art have deep meanings. Artists often work together in groups, like the Cap-Haïtien group, which shows life in the city, or the Saint-Soleil group, known for its special styles inspired by old traditions.

In the 1920s, a movement called indigéniste became famous around the world. It used strong, expressive paintings to show Haiti's culture and African roots. Well-known artists from that time include Hector Hyppolite, Philomé Oban and Préfète Duffaut. Today, artists like Edouard Duval-Carrié, Frantz Zéphirin, Leroy Exil, Prosper Pierre Louis and Louisiane Saint Fleurant are also famous. Sculpture is popular too, with artists like George Liautaud and Serge Jolimeau.

Music and dance

Haitian music is a mix of many sounds from the people who have lived in Haiti. It includes French, African, Spanish, and even some from the island's first people. Unique kinds of Haitian music come from old traditions, Rara music for parades, Twoubadou ballads, mini-jazz rock bands, Rasin, Hip hop in Creole, méringue, and compas. Young people enjoy dancing at clubs called discos or at formal balls called Bal.

Compas (konpa) is a special type of music that combines African rhythms and European dancing styles with Haiti's own culture. It is a smooth and changing music, with méringue as its main beat. Haiti did not record music until 1937, when Jazz Guignard was first heard.

Literature

Haiti has created poems, novels, and plays that are known all over the world. During the time of French rule, French was the main language for writing. But since the 18th century, people have also written in Haitian Creole. In 1975, Franketienne wrote the first novel completely in Haitian Creole, called Dezafi. Well-known Haitian writers include Jean Price-Mars, Jacques Roumain, Jacques Stephen Alexis, Marie Vieux-Chauvet, Pierre Clitandre, René Depestre, Edwidge Danticat, Lyonel Trouillot and Dany Laferrière.

Folklore and mythology

Haiti has many interesting folk tales and stories. Many of these come from the Haitian Vodou tradition. People also believe in zombies and other magical creatures like the lougarou.

Cinema

Haiti has a small but growing film industry. Famous directors who make documentaries include Raoul Peck and Arnold Antonin. Directors who make fictional films include Patricia Benoît, Wilkenson Bruna and Richard Senecal.

Cuisine

Haiti is well-known for its creole cuisine, which is similar to Cajun cuisine. One popular dish is soup joumou.

Sports

Main article: Culture of Haiti § Sports

Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Haiti, with many local teams. Basketball and baseball are also becoming more popular. Stade Sylvio Cator in Port-au-Prince is mainly used for association football games. The Haiti national football team was one of the first Caribbean teams to play in the World Cup, and they will be returning to the tournament after 52 years. The team won the 2007 Caribbean Nations Cup. The women's team also played in the FIFA World Cup in 2023.

Haiti has been part of the Olympic Games since 1900 and has won several medals. A Haitian footballer, Joe Gaetjens, played for the United States national team in the 1950 FIFA World Cup, scoring the winning goal when they beat England.