The Land of Liberty: A Decolonial Perspective on International Migrations to Haiti (1804 - 1888)

This study examines international migrations to Haiti during the 19th century, utilizing historical and secondary sources and adopting a decolonial approach. This aspect has been little explored in the international literature, particularly in the Brazilian literature on the migratory phenomenon related to the Caribbean country. The objective is to highlight that, after gaining independence in 1804, Haiti rigorously fought against colonialism and slavery. The country became a refuge for Afro-Americans and Afro-Caribbean individuals fleeing slavery in other nations of the Americas. Furthermore, before becoming a country of emigration today, throughout the 19th century, Haiti warmly welcomed immigrants from various origins, including Europeans and people from other parts of the world, of multiple nationalities. These arrivals of non-nationals to Haiti preceded Haitian emigrations to other countries, and understanding this context is crucial from a decolonial perspective.