Haiti is a country with both an awe-inspiring history and a challenging present. Originally populated by the Taino people, the nation’s population was enslaved under Spanish colonization following Christopher Columbus’ landing on the island in 1492. After centuries of forced labor, decimation of the country’s natural resources, and territorial battles by European occupiers, the people of the Republic of Haiti recaptured their independence from the French in 1804, representing the Caribbean’s first successful slave revolution, which remains a source of pride throughout the region.

 
Despite this storied past, Haiti today is a nation struggling to overcome a myriad of challenges, some self-imposed, and others unavoidable. The nation has yet to overcome the crippling effects of the world wars of the 1900’s, including scarce resources in the Western Hemisphere and a pattern of foreign policy of established nations that focused on European relations rather than more local Caribbean needs. Environmental factors have also significantly impacted the nation’s progress. Deforestation by Haitian people seeking a reliable energy source has exponentially increased the country’s exposure to devastating hurricanes by eliminating the protective tree barrier. Political corruption and forced military coups continues to undermine the country’s stability and has left the population in constant upheaval. The resulting mistrust for the government, both internally and abroad, leading to trade embargoes and military intervention, has left the nation in a current state of constant crisis.

 
And yet, the people of Haiti share a unique culture, language, and identity that separate the nation from its Caribbean counterparts. In addition, the Haitian Diaspora in the United States is comprised of successful people with an intense desire to assist their native country. The potential for positive change is therefore unlimited and the Samuel Dalembert Foundation is committed to being a part of Haiti’s impending revitalization.