Political and Economic Challenges in the 19th and 20th Centuries

Debt and Economic Hardship:

French Debt:

The indemnity paid to France for independence, plus interest, drained Haiti’s resources and hindered economic growth.

Economic Dependency: 

  Reliance on agriculture and limited resources created economic dependency and instability.

Foreign Occupations and Influence:

U.S. Occupation (1915-1934): The U.S. occupied Haiti under the of restoring order, controlling institutions and infrastructure.
Infrastructure Development:           While the U.S. improved some infrastructure, the occupation’s exploitation bred resentment among Haitians.

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 Authoritarian Rulership

   Duvalier Dynasty: François "Papa Doc" and Jean-Claude "Baby Doc" Duvalier ruled through a repressive dictatorship, exploiting citizens and silencing opposition.

Francois Duvalier ("Papa Doc")

Jean Claude ("Baby Doc")

Tonton Macoute: A brutal paramilitary force used by the Duvaliers to enforce their authority and suppress dissent.

Migration and Diaspora:

Haitian Diaspora: 

Economic and political conditions led Haitians to migrate to countries like United States, Canada, and France.

Remittances: 

The diaspora sent money back to Haiti, becoming a vital part of the economy and supporting families and communities.