Politics

Product Description

In Haïti – Haitii Jean-Bertrand Aristide combines the artistry of Swahili with the poetic incisiveness of his native Kreyol to produce an eloquent critique of colonialism and an affirmation of humanist principles.

Aristide uses poetry, prose and proverbs to tell the epic story of Haiti, the world’s first independent Black republic. He chronicles the brutality of the colonisers and the ways in which they attempted to dehumanise Haitians. Aristide illustrates how Haitians' 300-year journey to freedom has been guided by the African philosophy of Ubuntu, a world view that emphasises human solidarity. Today, Aristide writes, it is this same philosophy that can empower a new generation of Africans to resist neo-colonialism.

This book is the inspiring inside story of the country which has both suffered in unimaginable ways and dared to dream of freedom. It will be essential reading for all those interested in the past, present and future of Haiti and the prospects for national liberation across the world in the 21st century.

About The Author

Former Haitian President Jean-Bertrand Aristide lives is a linguist educator who works for social justice. Before serving as Haiti’s first democratically elected president, Aristide was an ordained Catholic priest. His second term in office was cut short by a coup d’etat that forced him into exile. In 2007 he earned a Doctor of Literature and Philosophy in African Languages from the University of South Africa. He has recently returned to Haiti from exile in South Africa.