The history of Haiti demonstrates the determination, resilience, and strength of its people. Haiti was once dominated by white colonialism. Toussaint L’Ouverture, a Haitian general led a rebellion against France to gain freedom. After numerous years of war, Haiti triumphed over the French. Jean Jacquees Dessalines formally declared Haitian independence on January 1,1804. This made it the first free black led republic in the world. It also became the first country that was founded by former slaves. This revolution not only freed Haiti from white colonialism, but it also abolished slavery in Haiti. However, Haiti faced the financial blow of having to pay reparations to France as compensation to the former slave owners. Regardless, Haiti became a beacon of hope for both free and enslaved Black people in other parts of the world.
Haitian art displays the talent and spirit of its people. The unique craftsmanship is recognized and admired throughout the world. Metal art is one of the forms of art that Haiti is most known for. Haitian metal art was invented by the blacksmith, Georges Liautaud in the 1950's. He was initially inspired to make decorative metal crosses to mark the graves of the deceased. He then began creating more elaborate designs that incorporated natural and spiritual elements. The spiritual elements were an infusion of Roman Catholicism with traditional African spiritual systems. He made them from recycled steel drums, iron chains, and scraps of metal. Each art piece was crafted by hand using tools such as a hammer and chisel. His masterpieces are displayed in museums around the world including MoMa in New York. Georges Liautaud’s steel metal art ignited a new art movement, and the technique is now practiced by over two thousand artisans.