Wanted! A Nation!: Black Americans and Haiti, 1804-1893

Presents a complex panorama of the emergence of African American identity and argues that Haiti should be considered as an essential prism to understand how African Americans forged their identity in the nineteenth century.

Format: Hardback
Length: 292 pages
Publication date: 15 December 2023
Publisher: University of Georgia Press

Wanted! A Nation! delves into the intricate tapestry of African American history, shedding light on the profound impact of Haiti on the formation of African American identity throughout the nineteenth century. Claire Bourhis-Mariotti's insightful analysis reveals that Haiti held a special place in the hearts of free Black Americans, serving as a beacon of hope and a potential destination for full citizenship. In times of despair when they faced systemic discrimination and limited opportunities in the United States, Haiti became a sanctuary, offering a glimpse of a better life. Haitian leaders played a pivotal role in shaping this narrative, supporting American emigration to Haiti in the 1820s and early 1860s, opposing American geostrategic and diplomatic diktats in the 1870s and 1880s, and ultimately providing a platform for Frederick Douglass at the 1893 Columbian Worlds Fair. Through their actions, Haitian leaders not only aided Black people in their fight against slavery and the slave trade but also laid the foundation for their pursuit of equal rights.

Wanted! A Nation! challenges the traditional boundaries of national American history, expanding our understanding of the Atlantic and global dimensions of the struggle for equal rights. By examining the complex interactions between Haiti and African Americans, the book offers a fresh perspective on the complex web of factors that shaped African American identity during this transformative period. It highlights the role of Haitian culture, politics, and society in shaping African American thought and activism, emphasizing the interconnectedness of different regions and peoples in the pursuit of justice and equality.

In conclusion, Wanted! A Nation! is a groundbreaking work that sheds new light on the intricate relationship between Haiti and African American identity. Through its comprehensive analysis and rich narrative, the book provides a valuable contribution to the field of history, challenging our preconceptions and illuminating the complex tapestry of African American history. By exploring the enduring impact of Haiti on the lives and struggles of African Americans, Wanted! A Nation! offers a deeper understanding of the complex forces that shaped the nineteenth century and continues to resonate in our contemporary world.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780820365893