Haiti : An Unfinished Revolution - Part 4 : Foreign Occupation & Political Turmoil (1804 - 1849)

The 19th and 20th centuries were a tumultuous period for Haiti, marked by frequent leadership changes, political instability, and economic challenges. The country's dependence on agriculture, infrastructure deficiencies, and the debt burden inherited from the colonial era hindered its development.

Economic Domination: The United States imposed a customs receivership, giving it control over Haiti's finances and extracting significant economic benefits.
Political Interference: The U.S. intervened in Haitian politics, supporting friendly leaders and suppressing dissent, undermining Haitian democracy.
Social and Cultural Impact: The U.S. occupation introduced American customs and values, leading to changes in Haitian society but also resentment and resistance.
The Gold Heist: In 1914, U.S. Marines seized $500,000 in gold from the Haitian National Bank, further exacerbating tensions and undermining Haitian sovereignty.
The U.S. occupation left a lasting legacy of resentment and distrust, shaping Haiti's relationship with the United States for decades to come.