Haiti

Overview

Haiti is a fascinating country to visit for those with a feel for history.

Although preservation has not been a priority for very many of the numerous Haitien governments, benign neglect has left the countryside covered with remnants of the wars for freedom, the defeat of the Slaver Empire.

The adventure tourist can find much of interest to see and do. One of the best places to start exploring the country is the capital city of Port-au-Prince . It offers many good sights and there are some excellent beaches nearby. Another nice place to go is Cap Haitien , which offers very good beaches nearby as well as some nice things to do and see.

Destinations in Haiti Port-au-prince Cap haitien Mirebalais Jacmel Macaya peak national park Petite Riviere de Nippes Gonave island

History

The native Arawak Amerindians - who inhabited the island of Hispaniola when it was discovered by Columbus in 1492 - were virtually annihilated by Spanish settlers within 25 years. In the early 17th century, the French established a presence on Hispaniola, and in 1697, Spain ceded to the French the western third of the island - Haiti. The French colony, based on forestry and sugar-related industries, became one of the wealthiest in the Caribbean, but only through the heavy importation of African slaves and considerable environmental degradation. In the late 18th century, Haiti's nearly half million slaves revolted under Toussaint L'OUVERTURE and after a prolonged struggle, became the first black republic to declare its independence in 1804. Haiti has been plagued by political violence for most of its history. It is the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere. Over three decades of dictatorship followed by military rule ended in 1990 when Jean-Bertrand ARISTIDE was elected president. Most of his term was usurped by a military takeover, but he was able to return to office in 1994 and oversee the installation of a close associate to the presidency in 1996. ARISTIDE won a second term as president in 2000, and took office early in 2001. However, a political crisis stemming from fraudulent legislative elections in 2000 has not yet been resolved.