After 14 years of revolution, Haiti gained independence from France in 1804. But just when Haiti was recovering from centuries of colonialism, French armies returned to the shores of Haiti looking for revenge.
In 1825, France forced Haiti to pay 150 million francs in reparations in exchange for recognition of its independence. That debt was only the beginning of worse to come.
If that money had stayed in Haiti an estimated $21 billion would have been added to its economy. Haiti might be a thriving country today if it hadn’t had to pay reparations.
The history of Haiti’s exploitation reminds us exactly why when it comes to our history we can never just “get over it.” The impacts of racism from the past are still powerful today.