THE LIBERATORS
The narrative of Haiti and the Haitian Revolution transcends a national context. As the first nation to permanently abolish slavery, it holds great significance not only for the Haitian people but also for the broader African resistance movement.
THE LIBERATORS
The narrative of Haiti and the Haitian Revolution transcends a national context. As the first nation to permanently abolish slavery, it holds great significance not only for the Haitian people but also for the broader African resistance movement.
"I’m passionate about preserving and celebrating our heritage. I do this through Belle Vue Tours, our historical and cultural tour company and BVstylez, our bag company under the brand THE LIBERATORS."
- Guerline T. Emmanuel
"I’m passionate about preserving and celebrating our heritage. I do this through Belle Vue Tours, our historical and cultural tour company and BVstylez, our bag company under the brand THE LIBERATORS."
- Guerline T. Emmanuel
THE LIBERATORS
In the age of revolutionary, unlike the American and French Revolutions, the Haitian Revolution uniquely proclaimed genuine liberty and human rights, rejecting chattel slavery and asserting that equality must include all individuals, regardless of gender.
Anacaona
Cacique (Queen) of the Taíno people, she ruled over Xaragua and was born into one of the five Caciques (kingdoms) of the island of Hayti. She organized and led numerous battles against the Spanish invaders, fiercely defending her people's land and freedom.
Cécile Fatiman
A strategic and mystical priestess, she played a crucial role in directing secret meetings alongside Boukman. She was instrumental in organizing the Bois Caïman ceremony on August 14, 1791, which galvanized the only successful revolt of African captives in history, leading to the creation of an independent state.
Sanite Bélair
As a lieutenant in the revolutionary army, this Haitian heroine actively fought against the French expedition aimed at restoring slavery in the colony and deporting Black leaders en masse. She displayed remarkable valor in battle, but when captured by the French, she was sentenced to death by decapitation, while her husband faced execution by firing squad. Defying the guillotine, she died bravely, standing tall with her eyes uncovered, embodying the spirit and dignity befitting her rank as a lieutenant in the revolutionary army.
Marie-Louise Coidavid
A significant figure in Hayti’s royal history, she was the first and only Queen of Hayti, ruling the northern part of the nation alongside her husband, King Henry Christophe. Her leadership and influence were pivotal during this important era.
Marie-Claire Heureuse Felicité Bonheur
Born into slavery, she became a free woman, educator, natural healer, and war nurse. As a constitutional contributor and adoptive mother to many, she embodied courage and intelligence, ruling alongside Dessalines as the first Empress of Hayti.
Agbaraya Tòya
General and commander of her own troops during the Haitian Revolution, Victoria Montou, also known as Tòya in the slave system, was captured and brought to Saint-Domingue (Hispaniola). Highly regarded by Jean-Jacques Dessalines, the first leader of independent Hayti, she was considered an aunt and a pivotal figure in shaping the man he became.
Catherine Flon
Commissioned by Dessalines as part of the great Congress of Arcahaie, she played a vital role in determining the flag and making key decisions for the future of the new nation of Hayti. She is credited with sewing the blue and red flag of the revolution, which was established following the Congress held in mid-May 1803.
Suzanne Simone Baptiste
She was the devoted partner and caretaker of Toussaint Louverture, one of the most powerful figures in Haitian and world history. Her unwavering support and strength played a crucial role in his life and legacy.
Marie-Jeanne Lamartinière
Renowned for her bravery in battle, Marie-Jeanne Lamartinière played a crucial role in the significant fight for independence at La Crête à Pierrot. She distinguished herself during this legendary battle, depicted with a rifle slung over her shoulder and a saber at her side. Surrounded by thousands of French soldiers, her heroic actions—loading cannons, distributing cartridges, and rallying her comrades—have etched her name in world history.
Marie-Sainte Dédée Bazile
A valuable logistical contributor to the Haitian Revolution, she served in Dessalines’ camp, playing a crucial role in supporting the efforts that led to Haiti’s independence.
Caonabo
Cacique (King) of the Taíno people of Maguana, he was one of the original inhabitants of the island of Hayti. As a fierce spiritual leader and warrior, he avenged the mistreatment of the Taínos by the Spaniards left by Columbus in 1492.
Makandal
A Maroon and spiritual leader, possibly from central Africa or the western coastal region, he was abducted, enslaved, and brought to Saint-Domingue. Leading one of the largest Maroon societies in the northern plains, he wreaked havoc on plantations with the goal of eradicating colonial rule. His deep connection to his African heritage endowed him with knowledge of plants and poisons, which he used to disrupt plantation life.
Toussaint
Descended from Déguenon, the Gaou (Minister of War) of the kingdom of present-day Benin, Toussaint Louverture was born into slavery around 1743 in the colony of Saint-Domingue. A military genius and Governor-General, he laid the foundation for the first Free Black State in the Americas. Freed in 1776, he died on April 7, 1803, from the cold at Fort de Joux in France, a prisoner of Bonaparte.
Capoix Lamort
A key figure in the Battle of Vertières, he played a crucial role in defeating Napoleon's French army. As a military leader and a major figure in the Haitian Revolution, he is celebrated as a hero of the Battle of Vertières. He was a signatory of the Act of Independence of Haiti on January 1, 1804, as well as the Constitution of May 20, 1805, solidifying his legacy in the foundation of the nation.
Pétion
Born in Saint-Domingue, he was a military leader who became President of the Republic of Hayti in the southern part of the divided nation after the assassination of Emperor Jacques I on October 17, 1806. He supported Simón Bolívar’s quest to liberate Gran Colombia and advocated for the abolition of slavery.
Déka
A young African held captive near present-day Port-de-Paix, he managed to escape and established one of the first free settlements on the island. His courageous actions laid the groundwork for future resistance and independence.
Boukman
The exact place and date of Boukman's birth remain unknown. However, he is celebrated as the first revolutionary leader of the Bois Caïman ceremony, where he, alongside Cécile Fatiman, ignited the signal for the general uprising of enslaved people that ultimately led to the revolution and liberation of Saint-Domingue. As a key participant and revolutionary leader at Bois Caïman, he sparked the insurrection in August 1791, inspiring future leaders of the Haitian Revolution.
Dessalines
Jean-Jacques Dessalines was born and died in Haiti, having endured the horrors of slavery. He led the Haitian Revolution to a successful victory over Napoleon's army, abolishing slavery in the process. Renaming the country Hayti, he is celebrated as the founder of the Haitian nation. Dessalines completed the first constitution of Hayti and championed human rights for all. His influence extended beyond Haiti, inspiring liberation struggles worldwide and assisting Latin Americans in their quest for freedom in the Americas.
Boisrond-Tonnerre
A prominent historian, secretary, and chief advisor to General and Emperor Dessalines, he authored Hayti’s Declaration of Independence and the first recorded history of the new state by drafting two Campaign Journals of the Chief General of the Indigenous Army— the Expedition against Port-au-Prince and the Northern Campaign Journal. These journals documented the key events and achievements from the two most decisive phases of the War of Independence.
Christophe
One of the key generals in the Haitian Revolution, he served as President of the northern state of Hayti and became King of the North following the assassination of Emperor Jacques I on October 17, 1806. A strong leader with ambitious vision, he established an advanced system of governance that produced numerous symbols of world heritage, including the UNESCO World Heritage site of Citadelle Henry, showcasing the accomplishments of the Haitian people. As a hero of the independence struggle, he signed the Act of Independence of Hayti on January 1, 1804, as well as the act establishing the Empire of Haiti. From 1811 until his death in 1820, he built a renowned kingdom that featured several palaces, castles, and the Citadelle Henry, which stands as a powerful symbol of freedom.
We honor these LIBERATORS whenever discussions about freedom, liberty, and human rights occur. The BVstylez collection is a conversation starter in recognizing their contributions.
THE LIBERATORS
In the age of revolutionary, unlike the American and French Revolutions, the Haitian Revolution uniquely proclaimed genuine liberty and human rights, rejecting chattel slavery and asserting that equality must include all individuals, regardless of gender.
Anacaona
Cacique (Queen) of the Taíno people, she ruled over Xaragua and was born into one of the five Caciques (kingdoms) of the island of Hayti. She organized and led numerous battles against the Spanish invaders, fiercely defending her people's land and freedom.
Cécile Fatiman
A strategic and mystical priestess, she played a crucial role in directing secret meetings alongside Boukman. She was instrumental in organizing the Bois Caïman ceremony on August 14, 1791, which galvanized the only successful revolt of African captives in history, leading to the creation of an independent state.
Sanite Bélair
As a lieutenant in the revolutionary army, this Haitian heroine actively fought against the French expedition aimed at restoring slavery in the colony and deporting Black leaders en masse. She displayed remarkable valor in battle, but when captured by the French, she was sentenced to death by decapitation, while her husband faced execution by firing squad. Defying the guillotine, she died bravely, standing tall with her eyes uncovered, embodying the spirit and dignity befitting her rank as a lieutenant in the revolutionary army.
Marie-Louise Coidavid
A significant figure in Hayti’s royal history, she was the first and only Queen of Hayti, ruling the northern part of the nation alongside her husband, King Henry Christophe. Her leadership and influence were pivotal during this important era.
Marie-Claire Heureuse Felicité Bonheur
Born into slavery, she became a free woman, educator, natural healer, and war nurse. As a constitutional contributor and adoptive mother to many, she embodied courage and intelligence, ruling alongside Dessalines as the first Empress of Hayti.
Agbaraya Tòya
General and commander of her own troops during the Haitian Revolution, Victoria Montou, also known as Tòya in the slave system, was captured and brought to Saint-Domingue (Hispaniola). Highly regarded by Jean-Jacques Dessalines, the first leader of independent Hayti, she was considered an aunt and a pivotal figure in shaping the man he became.
Catherine Flon
Commissioned by Dessalines as part of the great Congress of Arcahaie, she played a vital role in determining the flag and making key decisions for the future of the new nation of Hayti. She is credited with sewing the blue and red flag of the revolution, which was established following the Congress held in mid-May 1803.
Suzanne Simone Baptiste
She was the devoted partner and caretaker of Toussaint Louverture, one of the most powerful figures in Haitian and world history. Her unwavering support and strength played a crucial role in his life and legacy.
Marie-Jeanne Lamartinière
Renowned for her bravery in battle, Marie-Jeanne Lamartinière played a crucial role in the significant fight for independence at La Crête à Pierrot. She distinguished herself during this legendary battle, depicted with a rifle slung over her shoulder and a saber at her side. Surrounded by thousands of French soldiers, her heroic actions—loading cannons, distributing cartridges, and rallying her comrades—have etched her name in world history.
Marie-Sainte Dédée Bazile
A valuable logistical contributor to the Haitian Revolution, she served in Dessalines’ camp, playing a crucial role in supporting the efforts that led to Haiti’s independence.
Caonabo
Cacique (King) of the Taíno people of Maguana, he was one of the original inhabitants of the island of Hayti. As a fierce spiritual leader and warrior, he avenged the mistreatment of the Taínos by the Spaniards left by Columbus in 1492.
Makandal
A Maroon and spiritual leader, possibly from central Africa or the western coastal region, he was abducted, enslaved, and brought to Saint-Domingue. Leading one of the largest Maroon societies in the northern plains, he wreaked havoc on plantations with the goal of eradicating colonial rule. His deep connection to his African heritage endowed him with knowledge of plants and poisons, which he used to disrupt plantation life.
Toussaint
Descended from Déguenon, the Gaou (Minister of War) of the kingdom of present-day Benin, Toussaint Louverture was born into slavery around 1743 in the colony of Saint-Domingue. A military genius and Governor-General, he laid the foundation for the first Free Black State in the Americas. Freed in 1776, he died on April 7, 1803, from the cold at Fort de Joux in France, a prisoner of Bonaparte.
Capoix Lamort
A key figure in the Battle of Vertières, he played a crucial role in defeating Napoleon's French army. As a military leader and a major figure in the Haitian Revolution, he is celebrated as a hero of the Battle of Vertières. He was a signatory of the Act of Independence of Haiti on January 1, 1804, as well as the Constitution of May 20, 1805, solidifying his legacy in the foundation of the nation.
Pétion
Born in Saint-Domingue, he was a military leader who became President of the Republic of Hayti in the southern part of the divided nation after the assassination of Emperor Jacques I on October 17, 1806. He supported Simón Bolívar’s quest to liberate Gran Colombia and advocated for the abolition of slavery.
Déka
A young African held captive near present-day Port-de-Paix, he managed to escape and established one of the first free settlements on the island. His courageous actions laid the groundwork for future resistance and independence.
Boukman
The exact place and date of Boukman's birth remain unknown. However, he is celebrated as the first revolutionary leader of the Bois Caïman ceremony, where he, alongside Cécile Fatiman, ignited the signal for the general uprising of enslaved people that ultimately led to the revolution and liberation of Saint-Domingue. As a key participant and revolutionary leader at Bois Caïman, he sparked the insurrection in August 1791, inspiring future leaders of the Haitian Revolution.
Dessalines
Jean-Jacques Dessalines was born and died in Haiti, having endured the horrors of slavery. He led the Haitian Revolution to a successful victory over Napoleon's army, abolishing slavery in the process. Renaming the country Hayti, he is celebrated as the founder of the Haitian nation. Dessalines completed the first constitution of Hayti and championed human rights for all. His influence extended beyond Haiti, inspiring liberation struggles worldwide and assisting Latin Americans in their quest for freedom in the Americas.
Boisrond-Tonnerre
A prominent historian, secretary, and chief advisor to General and Emperor Dessalines, he authored Hayti’s Declaration of Independence and the first recorded history of the new state by drafting two Campaign Journals of the Chief General of the Indigenous Army— the Expedition against Port-au-Prince and the Northern Campaign Journal. These journals documented the key events and achievements from the two most decisive phases of the War of Independence.
Christophe
One of the key generals in the Haitian Revolution, he served as President of the northern state of Hayti and became King of the North following the assassination of Emperor Jacques I on October 17, 1806. A strong leader with ambitious vision, he established an advanced system of governance that produced numerous symbols of world heritage, including the UNESCO World Heritage site of Citadelle Henry, showcasing the accomplishments of the Haitian people. As a hero of the independence struggle, he signed the Act of Independence of Hayti on January 1, 1804, as well as the act establishing the Empire of Haiti. From 1811 until his death in 1820, he built a renowned kingdom that featured several palaces, castles, and the Citadelle Henry, which stands as a powerful symbol of freedom.
We honor these LIBERATORS whenever discussions about freedom, liberty, and human rights occur. The BVstylez collection is a conversation starter in recognizing their contributions.
AS FEATURED IN:
The makers of “The Liberators” travel bag are correct when they say their product gives a new meaning to the saying, “I’ve got the power of my ancestors with me."
Making travel and Haiti her business over the past 10 years, Guerline T. Emmanuel understands the need for utility in a travel bag. When she could not find one that suited her needs she created one.
When asked how it feels to see the bag come to life she says “I am grateful, humbled, and empowered. This is more than a product it is a piece of history.”
Travel Entrepreneur Guerline T. Emmanuel, Co-Founder of Belle Vue Tours is Telling the Untold Stories of her Ancestors. Giving a whole new meaning to “I’ve got the power of my ancestors with me”.
South Africa wrapped up Heritage Month with an international pageant that celebrates the world’s culture and heritage. On the 24th of September 2022, Haiti-born Abigail Pierre-Louis was crowned as....
Guerline T. Emmanuel, co-founder of Belle Vue Tours, understands the need for utility in a travel bag. The entrepreneur has made Haiti and traveling her business...
In this week’s episode, I speak with Guerline Emmanuel who has turned her love for family vacations into a full-time business guiding....
The unique, “Liberators” travel bag bears the names of many of Haiti’s female freedom fighters such as spy and warrior Marie-Jeanne Lamartinière.
Guerline Emmanuel is the Haitian American founder of Belle Vue Tours, a historical and cultural travel company. She also recently launched BVStylez,....
AS FEATURED IN:
The makers of “The Liberators” travel bag are correct when they say their product gives a new meaning to the saying, “I’ve got the power of my ancestors with me."
Making travel and Haiti her business over the past 10 years, Guerline T. Emmanuel understands the need for utility in a travel bag. When she could not find one that suited her needs she created one.
When asked how it feels to see the bag come to life she says “I am grateful, humbled, and empowered. This is more than a product it is a piece of history.”
Travel Entrepreneur Guerline T. Emmanuel, Co-Founder of Belle Vue Tours is Telling the Untold Stories of her Ancestors. Giving a whole new meaning to “I’ve got the power of my ancestors with me”.
South Africa wrapped up Heritage Month with an international pageant that celebrates the world’s culture and heritage. On the 24th of September 2022, Haiti-born Abigail Pierre-Louis was crowned as....
Guerline T. Emmanuel, co-founder of Belle Vue Tours, understands the need for utility in a travel bag. The entrepreneur has made Haiti and traveling her business...
In this week’s episode, I speak with Guerline Emmanuel who has turned her love for family vacations into a full-time business guiding....
The unique, “Liberators” travel bag bears the names of many of Haiti’s female freedom fighters such as spy and warrior Marie-Jeanne Lamartinière.
Guerline Emmanuel is the Haitian American founder of Belle Vue Tours, a historical and cultural travel company. She also recently launched BVStylez,....