Republic of Haiti, Land of Freedom and Resilience

The 10 departments of Haiti

Haiti, a jewel nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, stands out for its cultural, natural and historical wealth. This vibrant nation is divided into 10 departments, each offering unique treasures to discover. Originally formed from the three provinces of the colony of Santo Domingo (North, South and West), these departments have evolved over the years, subdividing into a mosaic of dynamic and distinct regions. Today, Haïti is organized into 42 districts, 146 communes and 575 communal sections. These subdivisions reflect a geographic and cultural diversity that is worth exploring. Ready for a captivating journey through the 10 departments of Haiti? We take you on an exciting exploration of their districts, towns and cities that make them up. Hang in there, the adventure starts here!

The compas direct: an important part of Haitian identity.

Music plays a crucial role in shaping the identity of a nation; in Haiti, it occupies a central place in the lives of almost all Haitians. It is used as one of the most reliable means used by the Haitian people to escape from the many events that constitute the majority of their daily lives. The musical genre that predominates in Haïti is direct compass. Created by the Haitian creative spirit, the compass evolved over the years to reach its current position. Today we can say with certainty that it is a musical genre that transcends generations and borders, becoming a symbol of pride and an inspiring sign for Haitians around the world.

Haiti: The First Free Black Republic in the World

Haiti, a Caribbean island of great historical significance, is known for being the world’s first free black republic. His tumultuous journey, punctuated by revolts, struggles for freedom and independence, left an indelible mark in the annals of world history.

Jean-Jacques Dessalines, leader of the Haitian Revolution

In the annals of the history of Haiti, an island located in the Caribbean at the entrance to the Gulf of Mexico and shared with the Dominican Republic, Jean-Jacques Dessalines emerges like a phoenix from the ashes of oppression. Born a slave on September 20, 1758 in the home of Henri Duclos, in Cormier (Grande-Rivière-du-Nord), in the French colony of Saint-Domingue, Dessalines was a Creole of African (Afro-Caribbean) origin. Freed during the 1794 abolition achieved through slave revolts, actually served as an officer in the French army during the French Revolution. At that time, the ideas of freedom and equality were at the heart of the concerns of the inhabitants of the colonies. Dessalines actively participated in the fighting against the Spanish and British forces, alongside the French, in Santo Domingo. Having risen to the rank of Lieutenant General, Jean-Jacques Dessalines turned against the French during the Leclerc expedition, sent to Saint-Domingue by Bonaparte to reestablish colonial authority and slavery during the Haitian Revolution. After the capture and deportation of Toussaint Louverture to France on June 7, 1802, Dessalines assumed a leading role in continuing the struggle for independence. He led numerous battles, including the battle of Crête-à-Pierrot in March 1802, where he galvanized his soldiers with his famous declaration: “Let those who want to remain slaves of the French leave the fort, let those, on the contrary, who want to die as free men, line up around me.” On January 1, 1804, Jean-Jacques Dessalines achieved the long-awaited goal of independence by proclaiming Haïti as a sovereign nation, becoming the second country in the Americas to gain independence from a colonial power. He became the first leader of the newly formed nation and was named Emperor under the name James I. However, his imperial reign was marked by authoritarian and brutal policies, including the massacre of many white settlers and the redistribution of land to peasants that was in the hands of the generals of the independence army. In addition, he organized the hunt for delinquents in the city while implementing rigorous agrarian policies, considering that they represented a threat to the stability of the nation, these controversial actions caused divisions within Haitian society. Dessalines was assassinated on October 17, 1806 following a plot organized by some of his generals in the Haitian army. His death marked the end of his brief but influential period in power. Despite the controversies surrounding his methods, he is recognized as the main architect of Haiti’s independence and his name was honored in 1903 by being attributed to the Haitian national anthem, La Dessalinienne, composed by Justin Lhérisson.Finally, the great visionary man Jean Jacques Dessalines remains an emblematic figure in the history of Haiti, recognized for his role in the fight for independence and the end of slavery in the region.

Haiti: Heritage and Historical Sites

Haiti, a Caribbean island located in the Greater Antilles archipelago, has a cultural and historical heritage of unparalleled richness. From its picturesque beaches to its majestic mountains and historic monuments, the country bears witness to centuries of complex and fascinating history. This article explores some of Haiti’s most significant heritage and historical sites.

Hill Plast: Eco-Friendly Backpacks for a Sustainable Future in Haiti

Imagine a world where every backpack you carry contributes to cleaning up the planet. That’s the bold vision behind Hill Plast to address a critical environmental challenge: plastic pollution. Founded on October 6, 2019 by Jhamily Hill Pompilus, certified in circular economy and business creation, Hill Plast is a Haitian company that transforms plastic waste into stylish and sustainable backpacks. Located in Haiti, the company aims to offer products that not only meet everyday needs, but also contribute to a cleaner world.