This is an in-depth conversation with Professor Gaffield, who is writing a biography of Jean-Jacques Dessalines, the Haitian revolutionary leader. Gaffield outlines the misconceptions surrounding Haiti’s post-revolutionary history, particularly the isolation thesis.
She emphasizes that Haiti’s diplomatic endeavors were complex and involved substantial international engagement, contrary to the idea of isolation. Gaffield shares how her academic journey, influenced by her undergraduate professor Melanie Newton, led her to this nuanced perspective on Haitian history.
The discussion touches upon the challenges of finding archival sources, the role of foreign merchants as unofficial diplomats, and the strategic diplomatic actions taken by Haitian leaders to assert sovereignty.
The conversation also highlights the often-overlooked contributions of Haitian women, particularly Madame Dessalines, in these historic events. The interview concludes with Gaffield expressing hope that her work will inspire further research and challenge prevailing historical narratives.
Unmasking Haitian Independence: A Deep Dive with Professor Gaffield In this episode, Professor Gaffield is interviewed about her ongoing research and forthcoming book on Haiti’s struggle for recognition after its revolution.
Touching on her academic journey, inspired by Professor Melanie Newton, Gaffield delves into Haiti’s complex diplomatic efforts, dispelling the isolation myth.
She explains the intricacies of Haitian leaders’ attempts to secure treaty worthiness and international recognition, their strategic diplomacy with British officials and other foreign merchants, and the influence of figures like Jean-Jacques Dessalines and his wife Marie-Claire Heureuse Félicité.
Gaffield also addresses the significant role of the merchant lobby and the minimal impact Dessalines’ death had on international diplomacy. Overall, the discussion sheds light on Haiti’s engaged and strategic role in the Atlantic world post-independence.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:26 Current Projects and Book Progress 01:24 Inspiration and Academic Journey 03:50 Haitian Revolution and Historical Context
08:01 Diplomatic Relations and Isolation Thesis
09:44 Archival Research and Discoveries 11:18 Haitian Independence and International Diplomacy
20:42 Role of Women in Haitian History
24:09 Forms of Government Post-Independence
26:26 Challenges in International Recognition 32:40 Final Thoughts and Future Work
