The Daily

The Cost of Haiti’s Freedom

Jun 3, 2022

Catherine Porter, the Toronto bureau chief for The New York Times, delves into Haiti's struggle against the burdensome independence debt imposed by France. She uncovers how this financial obligation crippled Haiti's development and enriched French elites. The discussion highlights the ongoing fight for justice and reparations, as well as the political turmoil surrounding calls for acknowledgment of these historical injustices. Porter’s insights shed light on the lasting impact of colonialism on Haiti's socio-economic landscape.

29:06

Creator website

Episode guests

Catherine Porter

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Intro

5min

The Burden of Independence Debt

11min

The Legacy of Haiti's Independence Debt

2min

Haiti's Struggle for Justice and Reparations

11min

The Cycle of Gun Violence and Legislative Inaction

2min

Biden's Urgent Call for Federal Gun Safety Laws

2min

In 1791, enslaved Haitians did the seemingly impossible. They ousted their French masters and created the first free Black nation in the Americas.

But France made Haitians pay for that freedom.

A team of reporters from The New York Times looked at the extent and effect of the ensuing payments.

Guest: Catherine Porter, the Toronto bureau chief for The New York Times.

Want more from The Daily? For one big idea on the news each week from our team, subscribe to our newsletter.

Background reading:

The first people in the modern world to free themselves from slavery and create their own nation were forced to pay for their freedom. A Times investigation explores Haiti’s reparations to France.

For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday.

Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everything from politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts or on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts

Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.