#dessalines

Jean-Jacques Dessalines

#tbt | “Jean-Jacques Dessalines was a leader of the Haitian Revolution and the first ruler of an independent Haiti under the 1801 constitution. Initially regarded as governor-general, Dessalines later named himself Emperor Jacques I of Haiti (1804–1806). He is regarded as a founding father of Haiti.” | people talk a lot about Haiti, but they need to know that the Haitian Revolution was the only slave revolt that resulted in freeing the enslaved and creating a sovereign state. respect!! #haiti #dessalines #revolution #bhm #freedom #sakpase #napboule #kiq

The Haitian Revolution was one of the largest slave rebellions in history. Although it was not the first slave revolt to take place in what was then known as Saint Dominigue, it had one of the greatest impacts on society. The fighting began in August of 1791, but the desire for independence began long before. Fueled by the cruel and inhumane treatment by white slave owners, Slaves would call for a voodoo ceremony to prepare to TAKE their Freedom. During the ceremony, the slaves would call upon the voodoo warrior Spirit, Ogun, and leaders would be selected to lead the revolt. Now contrary to popular belief, Toussaint l’Overture would not be among the first leaders of the rebellion; he would come later. It would be a man named Boukman.

After the ceremony, over 10,000 slaves marched to battle and began killing their white oppressors. In a few short days, thousands of whites had been killed and the morale of the Black army was sky high. This battle would serve as the catalyst for the Haitian revolution and eventually over 500,000 slaves and Free Blacks would join the battle for Independence. For years this Black Army, now lead by Toussaint l’Overture and Jean-Jacques Dessalines, would fight and defend their land. They would defeat the French armies several times along with the English and Spanish. In 1803, Toussaint would eventually be captured and die in prison but the revolution would not end there. Dessalines would lead the blacks and defeat the French once again forcing them to leave the land for good.

On January 1, 1804, Jean-Jacques Dessalines declared the nation Independent and renamed it Haiti. Haiti would become the first black republic in the world and one of few nations to win its independence from a European power. Slavery was abolished and a constitution would be provided that granted rights to all Haitian people. Most of all, the Haitian Revolution provided the inspiration for nations, not just black, but all over the world to begin to fight for Freedom. Had it not been for this Black Allegiance, lands such as Dominican Republic would never have gained their Independence.
“The Only Thing Necessary for Evil to Prevail Is for Good Men to do Nothing.”
Written By @KingKwajo