Le Premier Acte de l’Indépendance d’Haïti : Une Opportunité Manquée?
Haiti’s First Proclamation of Independence: A Missed Opportunity? By Patrick Prézeau Stephenson (Le Français suit) The Proclamation of Independence issued on November 29, 1803, at Fort-Dauphin (present-day Fort-Liberté) stands as a cornerstone of Haitian history. Signed by Jean-Jacques Dessalines, Henri Christophe, and Clervaux, it declared Saint-Domingue’s (Haiti's) independence from French colonial rule. This document, hailed as a testament to the resilience and vision of Haiti's leaders, was revolutionary in its rhetoric but, upon closer examination, reveals compromises that raise questions about its stance toward justice and accountability [1]. A Bold Declaration in an Age of Enlightenmen t The Proclamation’s language reflects the fiery resolve of Dessalines and his contemporaries to abolish slavery and protect their hard-won freedom. The statement, “We have sworn to punish anyone who dares speak to us of slavery,” is as unequivocal as it is defiant. It captures the spi...