Honoring the First Heroes of Freedom
To the people of Haiti, and to all nations around the world, we call upon you to remember the indomitable spirit of the Haitian heroes who stood as the first champions in abolishing slavery. Their courage lit the torch of liberty for oppressed peoples everywhere. Their struggle and triumph sent ripples across the globe, inspiring others to rise for their own freedom. These heroes were not only warriors of Haiti—they were liberators for humanity.
In the late 18th century, while much of the world remained shackled by the cruelty of slavery, a group of Haitian revolutionaries ignited a flame that could not be extinguished. These were men and women of unparalleled courage, vision, and sacrifice who dared to dream of a world where freedom was universal.
Haiti’s Global Legacy of Freedom
Haiti’s revolutionary spirit did not end with its borders. These Haitian forefathers extended their hands to nations beyond their own shores. When the United States was fighting for independence, a battalion of free Black soldiers from Saint-Domingue (modern-day Haiti) helped defend Savannah, Georgia, from British forces in 1779. Their bravery was etched into the history of the American Revolution.
And Haiti’s legacy didn’t stop there. In 1816, President Pétion famously provided arms, supplies, and soldiers to Simón Bolívar, the leader of South America’s fight for independence. Without Haitian support, the liberation of Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia may not have been realized as swiftly as it was.
May we never forget their names. May we always honor their sacrifice.
Dutty Boukman
1767 – November 7, 1791
His famous ceremony at Bwa Kayiman on August 14, 1791 is often regarded as the spark that ignited the Haitian fight for freedom. He inspired enslaved people to rise against their oppressors, using both spiritual leadership and revolutionary zeal. Boukman's sacrifice and leadership continue to symbolize the unyielding quest for liberty. His name remains synonymous with the dawn of Haiti's independence.
Henriette Saint-Marc
1750 – December 1802
She embodies courage and resilience. She supported the revolution by providing critical logistical support, and acting as a messenger. Henriette was a fearless woman who stood side by side with her fellow revolutionaries in the struggle for Haitian independence. She embodied the spirit of resistance, showing that the fight for freedom was a collective effort, not just reserved for men. Her courage and sacrifice made her a lasting symbol of female empowerment in Haiti's liberation.
Sanite Bélair
1781 – October 5, 1802
She was an enslaved woman who became a lieutenant in the revolutionary army, demonstrating exceptional leadership and combat skills. Alongside her husband, General Charles Bélair, she fought fiercely against French colonial forces for Haiti's independence. Even in captivity, her bravery remained unshaken; she refused a blindfold during her execution in 1802, facing her death with dignity and strength. Sanite Bélair's legacy endures as a symbol of resistance, courage, and the critical role women played in Haiti's fight for freedom.
Jean-Jacques Dessalines
1758 – October 17, 1806
Father of Haiti and First ruler of a free Haiti, his leadership was fierce, unyielding, and decisive in the struggle for freedom. He carried the revolution to its final victory, and declared Haiti’s independence on January 1, 1804. Dessalines' vision for a free Black republic, and his fierce determination to ensure its survival, made him one of history's most formidable revolutionaries. His legacy as a champion of liberty endures in the hearts of Haitians.
Toussaint Louverture
1743 – April 7, 1803
A brilliant military strategist and statesman, he fought relentlessly for liberty and human dignity, inspiring freedom movements across the globe. Though he did not live to see Haiti's independence, his early leadership laid the foundation for the eventual success of the revolution. He is remembered as a hero whose contributions to liberty transcended his lifetime.
Henri Christophe
October 6, 1767 – October 8, 1820
As a young boy, he participated in the October 9, 1779 Battle of Savannah. Christophe played a crucial role in Haiti’s independence and later became its first king. His vision of a prosperous, sovereign Haiti still resonates today. He built fortresses, including Citadelle Henri, also known as Citadelle Laferrière. He was known for his discipline, military skill, and ambition to build a strong, prosperous nation. Christophe's leadership helped secure key victories during the war, and his post-revolutionary rule left a lasting mark on Haiti's infrastructure and governance.
François Cappois
1766 – October 19, 1806
François Cappois, famously known as Kapwa Lamò, earned his heroic reputation during the Battle of Vertières in 1803. Charging fearlessly through enemy fire, he led his troops with unrelenting determination, even after his horse was shot down. His bravery in the face of certain death became a rallying cry for his fellow soldiers and a symbol of Haitian resistance. Capois’ boldness and courage on the battlefield remain legendary in the annals of Haiti's fight for freedom.
Nicolas Geffrard
November 10, 1761 – May 31, 1806
Nicolas Geffrard was a formidable military leader during the Haitian Revolution, remembered for his courage and tactical skills in battle. He played a significant role in securing the independence of Haiti by leading several successful military campaigns. Geffrard’s dedication to the cause of freedom made him a revered figure, and his contributions were instrumental in Haiti’s ultimate victory over French colonial forces. His name stands proudly among Haiti's revered freedom fighters.
Jean-Philippe Daut
–
Jean-Philippe Daut was a prominent figure in Haiti’s revolutionary army, known for his unwavering commitment to the fight for freedom. His military leadership and participation in key battles helped weaken French colonial rule and strengthen the resolve of the revolutionary forces. Daut's contributions to Haiti's liberation were significant, and he is remembered as a dedicated patriot who gave everything for his country’s independence. His bravery continues to inspire future generations.
Augustin Clervaux
–
Augustin Clervaux was a distinguished general during the Haitian Revolution, known for his strategic acumen and loyalty to the cause of freedom. He played a critical role in several important battles, including the defense of the southern regions of Haiti. His contributions to the revolutionary struggle were marked by his unwavering commitment to defeating the colonial forces. Clervaux’s name is honored among Haiti’s military heroes who fought tirelessly for the nation's independence.
Louis Etienne Gabart
–
Louis Etienne Gabart was another valiant general in the Haitian Revolution, contributing his military expertise to the cause of liberation. In the battles against French forces, he helped secure key victories for the revolutionary army. Gabart’s dedication to the ideals of independence and his courage on the battlefield made him an essential figure in Haiti’s path to freedom. His legacy is one of steadfast resolve and service to his people.
Laurent Ferou
–
Laurent Ferou was a valiant revolutionary leader whose contributions to the Haitian fight for freedom were marked by his steadfast dedication to the cause. He played an important role in several key battles and worked tirelessly to defeat the French colonial forces. Ferou’s courage and commitment to Haiti’s independence helped ensure the revolution's success. His name is remembered with pride as one of the many who fought to secure Haiti's future as a free nation.
Paul Romain
–
Paul Romain was a respected leader in the Haitian Revolution, playing a crucial role in organizing and leading troops in the fight for independence. His strategic brilliance and battlefield courage were vital to the success of numerous military campaigns. Romain's efforts helped pave the way for Haiti's victory over French forces, and his name remains synonymous with the revolutionary spirit. He is honored as a true hero of Haiti’s liberation.
Madan Pajo
–
Madan Pajo worked as a servant at Abbé Vido and often spied on French soldiers. One day, while Dessalines was visiting, she discovered that he was to be arrested that very day, so she signaled to him to escape.
Marie-Jeanne Lamartinière
–
Marie-Jeanne Lamartinière was a force of courage at Crête-à-Pierrot. Her fiery words rekindled the spirits of those on the brink of despair, and her presence became a beacon of strength for the soldiers, who saw her as a symbol of fortune and resilience. With her rifle in hand, standing tall and unyielding, she inspired the troops with a powerful cry: “It’s better to perish in the rubble of the fort than to surrender to the enemy.” Her voice lifted their souls and steeled their resolve to fight for freedom.
Alexandre Sabès Pétion
April 2, 1770 – March 29, 1818
Alexandre Pétion was a key military leader in the Haitian Revolution and later became one of the country's first presidents. His leadership during the siege of Jacmel and his collaboration with other revolutionary leaders were crucial to Haiti's victory over French forces. Pétion was also known for his commitment to democratic principles and his efforts to establish a republic in Haiti. His legacy is one of political vision and dedication to the ideals of liberty and equality.
Victoria Mantou
– 1805
Known as “Toya,” Victoria Mantou was a courageous figure whose rebellious spirit ran deep—she was said to be the aunt of Jean-Jacques Dessalines. After being separated from her fDessalines to their defiant nature, she was sent to a new master, Delije. Undeterred, Victoria inspired Delije’s enslaved people to rise for their freedom. Though the revolt was ultimately unsuccessful and led to her arrest, Toya’s fearless call for resistance lived on, igniting a powerful legacy of courage and resilience.
Catherine Flon
December 2, 1772 – August 27, 1831
Cathrine stands as a heroic figure in history, playing a vital role in the birth of a new nation. With courage and pride, she crafted the iconic blue and red flag for the Armée Indigène, symbolizing the fight for freedom and independence.
A Call to Remember
To Haitians, you stand on the shoulders of giants. The heroes of Haiti were not just liberators of their own land, but trailblazers for freedom worldwide. They sowed the seeds of resistance that grew into revolutions on other continents. They taught the world that the chains of oppression could indeed be broken, no matter how strong they seemed.
To the world, the story of Haiti is your story too. The Haitian Revolution was the first successful slave revolt in history, and its ideals of freedom, equality, and fraternity became a guiding star for oppressed peoples everywhere. The blood, sweat, and sacrifice of Haiti’s heroes helped to forge a new path for humanity, where all people could aspire to be free.
Let us stand in the light of their example and carry their legacy forward—for justice, for equality, for freedom—today and for future generations.