By Mark Orwell
Haiti is a country in the
Caribbean that occupies the island of Hispaniola along with its neighbor, the Dominican Republic. It is a nation that is known for both its independence and for its crime, though it is still a country that is beautiful and rich with its own culture. People visit here for its tropical beauty, but for the most part Haiti is known for its politics and its people, who have endured much in the past.
Independence
In 1791, the African slave population in Haiti began a revolution against their French Government. It was successful and in 1804 Haiti became an independent nation. It is the only nation to have gained its independence from a slave uprising.
Languages
The two main languages spoken in Haiti are French and the French-derived Creole language. It is the only Caribbean nation that speaks French throughout.
Politics
Haiti has a long history of being ruled by dictatorships that affected the nation negatively at times. When conflicts have become violent, outside forces from France and the United States have stepped in to help manage things.
Culture
Haiti has a unique culture among other Caribbean nations because of the strong French influence in it. African cultures and those of the Taino people have also mixed in to create the Haitian culture.
Highest Point
Pic la Selle, which is part of the Chaine de la Selle mountain range, is the highest point in Haiti. It can be found in La Visite National Park, where it reaches 2,680 meters above sea level.
About the Author:
In the summer of 2003, Mark Orwell began his career as a freelance writer focusing on popular culture, music, and film. He continues to write on a broad array of topics from Miami, Florida. His work has been available in the United States, the Caribbean, and South Africa.
