Happy New Year....


...and Haitian Independence day!!! It is surreal spending the first day of the New Year here in Haiti! Not only is it the beginning of the New Year, here in Haiti, it is a celebration of their independence. Haiti is a former French colony, that after a slave revolt that began on August 22, 1791 became the first black republic. It all began when the slaves in the north rose against their masters near Cap-Franciais (now called Cap -Haitien). This revolution spread rapidly and came under the leadership of Toussaint L'Ouverture. This revolution finally ended when Jean-Jacques Dessalines's army defeated the French forces at the Battle of Vertieres on November 18, 1803. On January 1, 1804 they declared their independence, securing their position as the second independent nation in the New World and the only successful slave rebellion in world history.
So, what I am learning is that this is a time of celebration for these people. This week will apparently be full of celebrations and holidays. Apparently a popular food that is eaten on the first day of January is pumpkin soup (joumou in Haitian Kreyol). The significance of this is that during the slave times in Haiti, only the french colonists could drink this delicious and aromatic meal on special occasions while the slaves were to drink simple bread soup. Well, on January 1st 1804, during the Independence celebration, a huge pot of pumpkin soup was concocted, and every one present was served a bowl to show that the descendants of slaves could unite and produce something extraordinary. I have never tasted it, but if I get lucky enough to try it tomorrow, I'll let you know!!!
Happy New Year!!!

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