Question

How did François Duvalier garner popular support in Haiti? 100 to 200 words

Answer 1

Haiti is a country that witnessed so many revolutions against slavery ,Spain , French and British domination .Haiti revolution against slavery drove out Spain and French to a large extent in 1804 itself that brought them independence.in such a country where blacks are dominant Duvalier fought for black nationalism and populism that made him a popular leader of the time .He openly declared that he was fighting for self-respect ,pride and dignity of the people and get rid of anyone's domination .He was a practised doctor who used to help people who were suffering from several diseases this nature brought him many accolades locally during his young days .He floated his party nationalist unity party on the lines of dignity and pride of the nation .He amassed large support from everyone through his tactics . Military coup toppled the Daniel fignole 's government in 1957 that brought him luck as he was the only leader available at the time so he could easily get into power in 1957 .Since then he ruthlessly continued being in power by crushing his opponents he continued to be in power until his death .his party is the only party available for Haitian people during his entire regime (people had no choice but to vote for him) thus he became a dictator and an authoritarian ruler irrespective of the people's support .He changed the Constitution and declared himself as the president for life .There was not much popular support once he was elected as the president because of his despotic nature .But before his coming into power he tried every means to get the succour of his people.