Haiti

The island of Hispaniola was inhabited by the Arawaks prior to the arrival of Christopher Columbus in 1492. Disease, ill treatment, and execution by the Spaniards decimated the Arawak population. The Arawaks named the island "Ayiti" which means land of mountains.

In 1804, Haiti became the first Black Republic to gain its independence in a revolt against France. Today, Haiti is a poverty-stricken land of urban overpopulation, a denuded landscape, and a people suffering from continual civil strife.

But Haiti's resilient and dynamic culture is vibrant with colorful art, fantastic music, rich folklore, and intensely spiritual people. Haitian culture is a fusion of African, French, and West Indian elements. Even with the hardships of the country's continuing turbulence, Haiti's rich culture remains strong and alive.