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EwoAyiti DIGITAL MUSEUM PRESERVE • EDUCATE • INSPIRE

FEATURED HERO

Ewo of the Month

Honoring the heroes who forged a nation, defended liberty, and gave Ayiti a legacy the world will never forget.

Jean-Jacques Dessalines

January FEATURE

Jean-Jacques Dessalines

“Liberte ou la Mort.”

Founder of Haiti and Commander-in-Chief of the revolutionary army, Jean-Jacques Dessalines led the decisive campaign that defeated Napoleon’s forces and secured Haiti’s independence.

On January 1, 1804, Dessalines proclaimed Haiti independent in Gonaïves, giving birth to the first free Black republic and one of the greatest victories for human freedom in world history.

HISTORICAL TIMELINE

The Road to Freedom

1758

Born

The future founder of Haiti is born in Saint-Domingue.

1791

Revolution Begins

The fight against slavery and colonial rule begins.

1803

Vertières

Haitian forces defeat the French at the Battle of Vertières.

1804

Independence

Dessalines declares Haiti independent on January 1.

DID YOU KNOW?

A Victory That Changed the World

Haiti’s independence proved that enslaved people could defeat empire, destroy slavery, and build a sovereign nation. The Haitian Revolution remains one of the most powerful victories for freedom in human history.

PRESERVE THE LEGACY

Wear the History. Celebrate the Culture.

Every Ewo Ayiti product helps keep Haiti’s heroes, symbols, and stories alive for future generations.

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