But peace was not to be had by the new nation and bitter political disputes ensued for another 100 years. Worried about the influence of the French and Germans on Haiti, in 1915 the United States invaded Haiti to assure American influence. This was seen as politically crucial due to the recent opening of the Panama Canal. With US Marines as an occupying force, the process of building an infrastructure began anew. The United States took over responsibility for building roads and bridges, collecting taxes, paying foreign debts, restructuring the government and military, and training Haitian leaders. Although the occupation was resisted in many corners, overall it was a peaceful time until the US military withdrawal in 1934.

A coup ousted the Duvalier family from power in 1986 and a period of tremendous upheaval has followed.

J ean-Bertrand Aristide, a Roman Catholic priest and an outspoken advocate for the poor, became president in 1991. Opposition from the Haitian military from 1992-1994 plagued Aristide's presidency. He spent three years ruling in exile from the United States, while Lieutenant General Raoul Cèdras led a military regime.

Economic conditions worsened because of the political struggle and the imposition of various United Nations and Organization of American States sanctions. In 1994, United States troops arrived in Haiti to oversee the transition from military dictatorship to democracy. President Aristide returned to Haiti on October 15, 1994.

In 1995, Renè Prèval was elected president. In late 2000, Aristide was again elected president in a questionable election.

And in Haiti the struggle for a place of order in the world continues.

Haitian Art and culture has been described as an extraordinary blend of African, French, Spanish, and Indian influence, reflecting the unique multicultural mix of this Caribbean island. Yet those who have visited Haiti would see it as an expression of the Haitian soul.
While some Haitian art may lack the polish found in more developed countries, it makes up for this with a deep and engaging representation of humanity. The Haitian artist finds holiness in the ordinary subjects of every day life. A crowded and colorful village market, the lined face of an elderly man, a mother embracing her child with tenderness, or women gathered at the river to wash their laundry, these are simple, soulful images commonly found in Haitian art. It is this soulfulness that attracts so many to admire & collect this remarkable art.

Traveling in Haiti, one is likely to find many examples of artistic ingenuity. Figures such as the Blessed Mother or a crucifix skillfully carved from scraps of wood are common. Recycled petroleum drums are often transformed into beautiful wall hangings or bowls. Many of these feature the trademark Haitian bright colors and familiar, natural beauty such as the crescent moon, blazing sun, or tropical flowers. Leather and wood masks in various colors, sizes and styles seem to be a particular favorite of this island.

Despite the often-barren surroundings, each individual in Haiti has an artistic view of the world as expressed in the many songs sung by heart. Haitian music reflects a profound faith in God and a sense of gratitude for their many blessings. For a visitor to this impoverished country, it is humbling to witness the easy, joyful spirits of the people as they place their trust in God for all things.

(By Jane Mason, St. Joseph Worker Foundation)