Overview

Though founded in the wake of a revolution that embodied its slave population's quest for freedom and equality, Haiti has endured a history marked by an unending pattern of repressive dictatorial regimes. Exploring that history, Robert Fatton offers a rigorous explanation of how and why the legacy of colonialism, the struggle against slavery, and the intersection of the domestic and world economies have contributed to both material scarcity in the country and the entrenchment of authoritarian rule. Fatton illuminates the culture of authoritarianism that, coupled with conditions of extreme underdevelopment, continues to undermine Haiti's recent struggle to establish a meaningful democracy. While offering some hope for the emergence of a more accountable political system, he underscores the profound difficulties of freeing Haitian society from the structural legacy of its long history of despotism. Fatton explores the historical legacy that has contributed to both material scarcity in Haiti and the entrenchment of authoritarian rule.

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9781588265449

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Reviews

This is a must read for anyone interested in Haitian politics.... a timely and well-researched book on the roots of Haiti's authoritarianism and its impact on the country's development. - Francis Pierre-Louis, Jr., Queens College, CUNY With its fascinating argument and rich selection of historical details, The Roots of Haitian Despotism offers a breath-taking tour of Haiti's revolutionary and postcolonial history. - Henry Carey, Georgia State University

Author Information

Robert Fatton Jr. is Julia A. Cooper Professor of Government and Foreign Affairs at the University of Virginia. His numerous publications include Haiti's Predatory Republic: The Unending Transition to Democracy.

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