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The Impact of Haitian Heroes at the Battle of SavannahHaiti
The Impact of Haitian Heroes at the Battle of Savannah
Haiti
  • September 16, 2024
  • | 0

The Impact of Haitian Heroes at the Battle of Savannah

The Battle of Savannah, which took place in October 1779, is recognized as a crucial turning point in the American Revolution. This major conflict, where American and French forces fought against the British, was also marked by the remarkable participation of Haitian soldiers. Among them, the future king of the northern part of Haiti, Henri Christophe, who was wounded by a bullet during this battle. Their contribution was decisive, highlighting the international solidarity in the quest for freedom and independence that characterized this era.

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Haïti and the USA, the differences between the struggles of Independence

It is interesting to compare the American War of Independence and the Haitian Revolution to understand their specificities. The American War of Independence, which took place from 1775 to 1783, aimed to break ties with Great Britain in order to obtain autonomy for the American colonies. This conflict, although deeply anti-colonial, did not focus on issues of slavery or racism. In other words, the aim of this conflictual approach was much more economic than humanist. On the other hand, the Haitian Revolution, which took place from 1791 to 1804, was a radical struggle against slavery, racism and colonial domination, integrating a broader and more inclusive dimension. It is the first and most complete revolutionary approach of modern times, based on the right of all men to live freely. While the American War of Independence ended British rule, the Haitian Revolution, in its quest for humanity and universality, aimed for total liberation and racial equality, representing a turning point in the struggle for human rights around the world.

America, a Land of Immigrants

The first inhabitants of America were called Native Americans. The Protestant Irish who fled persecution by the Anglican Church of English royalty can only be considered America’s first immigrants. All the other peoples who have united to form this giant country and world power are part of this same migratory logic. In other words, Haitians in Florida, Latinos in Los Angeles, and Arabs in Michigan are just a few examples of the many immigrant groups that enrich the country. They represent an integral part of a great migratory tradition.

Moreover, America, as a land of immigrants, is a true microcosm of global diversity. It is often described as "the world in a nutshell." A cosmopolitan city like New York perfectly illustrates this reality by reflecting the multiple communities that make up the American social fabric. This diversity is not only a characteristic, but also an essential force that enriches American society, demonstrating the importance of inclusion and diversity in the nation-building of the country.

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The contributions of immigrants in the construction of the United States

The contributions of immigrants to the edifice of America are vast and significant. They have played crucial roles in the economic, cultural and social development of the country. Whether it is building infrastructure, enriching culture or innovating in various fields, immigrants have shaped modern America. Their courage and determination are the foundation of today’s rich, strong, and diverse American society, which celebrates its shared history of inclusion.

Racism and Xenophobia, an Anomaly in an Immigrant Society

Racism and xenophobia appear as anomalies in a society based on immigration. Indeed, America is essentially made up of immigrants, whose influence is omnipresent in national institutions and symbols. For example, Karine Jean-Pierre, the current White House spokesperson under Joe Biden, is of Haitian origin. Barack Obama, a major figure in the recent history of American politics, had a Kenyan immigrant as his father. Kamala Harris, who is about to conquer the American presidency, is of Indian and Jamaican origin. These examples, among many others, illustrate the diversity and cultural openness that enrich America. This reality clearly demonstrates that racial prejudice and xenophobia, such as those expressed by some important figures of the Republican Party, with Donald Trump at their head, are not only in contradiction with the founding values ​​of America, but also with the reality of its social composition. The participation of Haitian heroes in the Battle of Savannah is a major historical fact that underlines the importance of the Haitian contribution to this rich social composition.

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About the Author
Moise Francois

Journalist editor, poet and apprentice lawyer.

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Haitian traditions

Haiti, the pearl of the Antilles, is a country rich in history and traditions. Its vibrant and diverse culture is reflected through its national holidays, cultural festivities, traditional foods, religious beliefs, folk tales, and traditional games. Let’s immerse ourselves in the social fabric of Haïti to discover the beauty of its traditions. b~National Holidays:~b National holidays in Haïti are moments of pride and national unity as January 1, Independence Day, commemorates the victory of Haitian slaves over French colonial forces in 1804, making Haïti the first independent country in Haiti. Latin America and the Caribbean or the commemoration of the Battle of Vertières on November 18. The Battle of Vertières was one of the last great battles of the revolution. It took place in Vertières, near the town of Cap-Haitien. b~Cultural Festivities:~b Haïti is also famous for its cultural festivities, particularly Carnival, which is an explosion of color, dance, and music. Artistic and craft events, such as the Rara festival, are an opportunity for artists to showcase their talent. The Rara, a musical parade, combines folklore and spirituality, creating a unique experience. b~Traditional Foods:~b Haitian cuisine is a delight for the taste buds. Dishes like griot (fried pork), diri djon djon (rice with black mushrooms), and the legendary joumou (joumou soup) are an integral part of Haitian culinary tradition. Bold flavors, spices and cooking methods inherited from African and French tradition make Haitian cuisine unforgettable. b~Vodou:~b Vodou, often misunderstood, is a synchretic religion that incorporates elements of Catholicism, African animism, and indigenous beliefs. It plays a significant role in the daily lives of Haitians, influencing music, dance, and religious rites. Vodou is a profound expression of Haitian spirituality. The Tales (Krik Krak, Tim Tim, Bwa Sèch): Haitian folk tales, passed down from generation to generation, are rich in morality and wisdom. b~Konbit :~b The concept of Konbit represents community solidarity. Haitians come together to perform community tasks, whether in agricultural fields or for construction projects. It is a living example of the collective spirit that permeates Haitian society. The most recent major project to date concerns the construction of the canal from the Massacre River to Ouanaminthe, which took place between September and December 2023. Thousands of inhabitants of the north of the country mobilized all their forces to erect a canal allowing to collect water intended for irrigation of their plantations, with the aim of obtaining better harvests. Despite their modest means, they were motivated by the slogan "KPK" (Kanal la pap kanpe), a direct response to Dominican President Luis Abinader who warned them and did everything in his power to stop the construction of the canal. This channel represents the deep solidarity of Haitians and reaffirms national pride. Despite economic challenges, the people of northern Haïti have demonstrated exceptional determination to work together for a common goal. The slogan “Kanal la pap kanpe” embodies their resilience in the face of external pressures and demonstrates their unwavering will to continue the construction of the canal. b~Traditional Games:~b Traditional games are an essential part of daily life in Haiti. Games like lido, sote kòd, Yoyo, Ralba, Marèl, TiTaTo, Kay, lago kache, Monte kap, teke mab, woule sèk, twa fwa se manbo, and domino bring people together, promoting camaraderie and fun. Haitian traditions are a harmonious blend of spirituality, community, and cultural diversity. Every aspect, from national holidays to traditional games, helps weave the rich cultural tapestry that makes Haïti proud. These traditions are the beating heart of the nation, a precious heritage that continues to be passed down from generation to generation.

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Beven brings Haïti among the elite of world slam

This Thursday, November 14, 2024, the young slam artist Youven Beaubrun, Beven by his stage name, qualified Haiti, for the very first time in its history, for the final of the Slam World Cup. This competition, which brings together the best slam artists on the planet, took place on African soil, more precisely in Togo. In a country held by the throat, a country that is dying from start to finish, under the dangerous feat of a certain armed part of its youth, Beven’s extraordinary performance in this competition resonates with the echo of a whole piece of the country, in the thirst for beauty. Beven is the symbol of a youth that refuses to give in to the chaos that surrounds the face of its motherland. Art, slam being his field of specialization, is used in the best possible way to make hope resonate. And to continue to believe that a country that made 1804 cannot afford the luxury of sinking so hard in the face of human history. "It is with pride that I advanced in this competition. Especially with the crisis that is going through the country at the moment. My qualification for the final is an eternal sign of hope, which confirms the fact that not everything in this country will end in death," the young slammer told us before going to compete in the final. The final took place on Saturday, November 16, 2024, where Beven had his chance to represent his wounded land well on the doorstep of a world victory, a victory that if it had taken place, would have been initialed in the name of an entire people, in the absolute race against a great chaos that dreams only of suffocating it. Although he failed to win this cup (finishing in sixth place overall), the Haitian slam champion had time to inspire an entire country during his great journey in this competition. This is only a postponement, next time victory will be achieved for sure.

History

History

First black nation to free itself from slavery and gain independence from France in 1804 and influenced other liberation movements around the world, inspiring struggles for freedom and equality.

Natural beauty

Natural beauty

Haïti is blessed with spectacular natural landscapes, including white sand beaches, mountains and rich biodiversity.

Heritage

Heritage

Haïti has a rich historical heritage, including sites like the Citadelle Laferrière and the Sans-Souci Palace, listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Culture

Culture

Haïti has a rich and diverse culture, influenced by African, European and indigenous elements. Haitian music, dance, art and cuisine are celebrated around the world.