Haitis and Cubas Independence Movement and Slavery

Table of Contents

Introduction
The Connection Between Slavery and Independence Movements
The Role of Black People and Free People of Color
Freedom, Equality, and Citizenship
Conclusion
Works Cited

Introduction

The independence movements in Latin America and the Caribbean were drastically different in terms of their conditions. The latter depended directly on ideological perceptions, according to which any changes in the economic position of the region were impossible, and any resistance from the diverse population was not expected (Trouillot 87). In turn, the former was determined by the initial willingness of revolutionists to cooperate with the United States to reach an agreement on their further development as a nation, which implied self-sufficiency (Ferrer 30). Meanwhile, in both cases, the common circumstance affecting the outcomes was slavery. Even though peoples attitudes about this institution in these territories varied, it is clear that Haitian and Cuban insurrections were influenced by the involvement of Black inhabitants.

The Connection Between Slavery and Independence Movements

The relation between independent movements in Latin America and the Caribbean and the existence of slavery at the time under consideration can be viewed through the lens of citizens participation in these initiatives. Thus, in the situation of Haiti, it was less apparent to the scholars because the assumption concerning slaves obedient nature was the dominant idea among European thinkers (Trouillot 72). As a result, their neglect of Blacks actions against their owners due to the lack of theoretical evidence led to unexpected consequences. From this perspective, the connection between their involvement and the subsequent independence can be stated as the correspondence of Haitian political sentiment and their attempts to address struggles. As for Cuba, the slaves were significant for the independence movement since they contributed to the authorities efforts to create a sovereign republic (Ferrer 22). The compliance of Blacks desire to become full-fledged citizens and the countrys needs determined further events. Therefore, it is feasible to examine the mentioned revolutions from the point of view of inequality.

The Role of Black People and Free People of Color

Enslaved Black people and free people of color played a critical role in the independence struggles of Haiti and Cuba. In the former country, their participation was not openly discussed as it was deemed impossible by the Europeans, whereas the evidence of the time shows the incorrectness of this stance (Trouillot 80). According to historians, the demands of Haitian citizens regarding freedom also included three days a week to work on their own gardens and the elimination of the whip (Trouillot 103). This claim could be made only by slaves, and this fact supports the idea of their importance for the success of initiatives. In addition, Cuban researchers write that the notion of gracelessness was reflected by the military activity of these population groups, which comprised sixty percent of the soldiers (Ferrer 30). In this way, their involvement was more apparent, and both cases show that these disadvantaged citizens were crucial for the insurrections.

Freedom, Equality, and Citizenship

The interpretation of freedom, equality, and citizenship by the slaves of the two regions correlated with the conducted national policies alongside these peoples beliefs. In Cuba, they were expressed by everyones inclusion in governmental affairs and disregard of race in the matter (Ferrer 29). In Haiti, these notions, as per the Blacks views, were the main conditions for wellbeing, and the lack of thereof led to criminal activity (Trouillot 83). Thus, despite the difference in their stances, the common ground was the significance of these ideas.

Conclusion

To summarize, the independence movements in Latin America and the Caribbean, as can be seen from the Cuban and Haitian experiences, were mostly guided by the problem of slavery. The Black population of these countries was perceived negatively by Europeans, whereas this factor facilitated the revolutions. In addition, the inclusion in the army and particular demands presented by them add to the standpoint of their importance, and it allows a conclusion on the key role of these citizens at the time.