ELEMENTS OF EIGHTEENTH-CENTURY HAITI2
Introduction
Haiti means “a mountainous country”, derived from Taino Indian language that
existed even before the settlement of the French colony. Haitians have suffered the rule of
dictatorship for over a decade. Through their struggles and adversities, the Haitian society
expressed their communal identity through the traditional inherent culture of religion, artistry,
family and parenting values. The research paper aims to highlight the cultural elements of
Haiti in the eighteenth century provided with in-depth insights of history and backgrounds of
Haiti society.
History
Sainte Dominigue was originally recognized as the French settlement but later the
settlement adopted the name Haiti. During the 18th century, Haiti accounted for 40 % of
France’s foreign trade by producing coffee and sugar and gained dominance over the
economy of Europe. Haiti prospered due to the slavery system supported by the hard labor of
500 to 700 thousand slaves mostly from Africa. The diverse culture of African slaves carved
its effect on the Haitian culture (Kubati, Charles & Fagan, 2015). Inspired by the French
Revolution of 1789, the slaves further rose up for their freedom and finally gained
independence after a rebellion of 10 years.
Cultural Context
Though the root of Haiti’s culture is from West Africa yet the cultural elements of
French colonizers especially in music and language are evident. The cultural aspects are
established through many religions and traditional folklore and tale that has been succeeded
through the generations. Haitian Voodoo is still observed, although the country has
experienced many other fearful practices performed by the dictators (Métraux, 2016). The

+13062052269

info@desklib.com

Elements of Eighteenth-century Haiti

Contribute Materials

Related Documents

Impact of Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade on Ghana