Haiti

Haiti's history is deeply intertwined with the transatlantic slave trade and colonial exploitation. Originally inhabited by the Taíno people, the island was claimed by Spain in 1492 and later ceded to France. The French colony of Saint-Domingue became incredibly wealthy through sugar production, relying heavily on enslaved African labor. The Haitian Revolution, beginning in 1791, was a pivotal moment, resulting in Haiti becoming the first independent Black republic in 1804. Despite achieving independence, Haiti faced significant economic and political challenges, including international isolation and crippling debt.