Final answer:
Haiti gained its independence through a slave uprising starting in 1791 that ultimately led to the declaration of independence on January 1, 1804. The revolution, led by Toussaint L'Ouverture and succeeded by Jean-Jacques Dessalines, was the first to free a nation from colonial rule with an army of former slaves. Despite their victory, Haiti faced significant challenges post-independence.
Step-by-step explanation:
How Haiti Gained Its Independence
Haiti's battle for independence began with the slave revolt in 1791 led by Toussaint L'Ouverture and, after his capture, was continued by Jean-Jacques Dessalines. Despite facing a much larger French force, the Haitian revolutionaries were determined to end both slavery and French colonial rule. With the combination of guerilla tactics, the French army being weakened by yellow fever, and support from the British, the Haitian forces were successful. The new nation was named Haiti, a Taino word meaning "mountainous land." Haiti officially declared independence on January 1, 1804, becoming the second country in the Americas to break free from European control and the first to be founded by former slaves.
Haiti's independence posed a substantial challenge to colonialism and the institution of slavery. It inspired other slave uprisings and eventually led to the recognition of its independence by countries like the United States in 1862. However, the nation faced immense struggles post-independence, such as demands of indemnities by France, political instability, and economic hardships, solidifying its place as the poorest country in the western hemisphere.