The Republic of Haiti (Hayti) is a republic in the west of the island of Hispaniola. It has a total area of 27,750 km2. The climate is tropical; semi-arid where the mountains in the east cut off trade winds. The terrain is mostly rough and mountainous. Natural resources are bauxite. The religion is 75-80% Roman Catholic (of which an overwhelming majority also practice Voodoo), 10% Protestant. The official language is French spoken by only 10% of population and Creole.
Haiti was colonised by France during the 17th century, formally becoming a French colony in 1697 with black slaves brought from Africa to work plantations. In 1790, the slaves led by Toussaint L'Ouverture revolted, took control and abolished slavery. France sent troops to Haiti who killed L'Ouverture, regained control and re-established slavery. In 1804 independence was proclaimed following a revolt led by Jean-Jaques Dessalines and Henri Christophe. However, it was not until November the 3rd, 1864, that a treaty of amity, commerce and navigation, and for the extradition of criminals, was concluded between Haiti and the USA, the United States not favouring either Negros or freed slaves. Research Haiti
Abbreviations
Gazetteer
Research Haiti