Haiti

Haiti is a Caribbean country occupying the western portion of the island of Hispaniola, which it shares with the Dominican Republic. Its capital and largest city is Port-au-Prince. The population is about 11 million. The official languages are Haitian Creole and French, with Creole spoken by virtually everyone. The country is a unitary semi-presidential republic, though political stability has often been limited.

Geography and environment: Haiti is largely mountainous, with coastal plains and limestone plateaus. It has a tropical climate with varied rainfall and is prone to natural hazards such as earthquakes and hurricanes. The 2010 earthquake near Port-au-Prince caused widespread devastation and a large humanitarian response; a 2021 earthquake affected the southern peninsula and caused additional casualties and damage.

History: The region was inhabited by Taino peoples before European contact. Saint-Domingue became a French colony, producing wealth through enslaved labor. A successful slave revolt led to independence in 1804, making Haiti the first black-led republic in the world. Since independence, the country has faced recurring political instability, foreign intervention, and recurring natural disasters. The United States occupied Haiti from 1915 to 1934, and the Duvalier dictatorship governed from 1957 to 1986. Since the 1990s and 2000s, Haiti has experienced periods of democratic contestation and reform, often supported by international aid and NGOs.

Economy and society: Haiti is one of the poorest countries in the Western Hemisphere. The economy relies on agriculture, textiles and garment production, and remittances from Haitians abroad. Foreign aid and international organizations play significant roles in development and relief efforts. The population is young, with challenges in infrastructure, health, and education.

Culture: Haitian Creole and French are official languages. Vodou, Catholicism, and Protestantism shape religious life alongside diverse traditions in music, art, and cuisine. Notable cultural expressions include kompa and rara music. UNESCO-designated sites such as the Citadelle Laferrière and Sans-Souci Palace reflect Haiti’s historical heritage.