Haiti as a rich history, filled with the blood of many peoples and countless hopes for freedom. With such a rich history, the country has yet to become financially stable due to its past. From the beginning of the French settlement where slaves were brought from Africa to harvest the crops, to the dictatorship of the Duvalier family. In Haiti, the time has not yet come when they will no longer need help. After the establishment of the racial caste system, many people would not see a truly independent country. When France finally granted independence to Haiti, it did so at great cost. After paying that price, the United States occupied them due to their location and many resources. Every year in Haiti's history as a nation and before has effects on the world today. These effects are not hidden in fine print, but are plainly seen in Haiti and those who have been involved with Haiti. Racial caste systems in Haiti before the Revolution were used to classify where everyone fit into their society. Originally there were three classes: the blancs, who were white people who owned land and slaves; the affranchis, who were freedmen of color descended from slaves and slave owners; and the noirs, who were the slaves. This system was a way to keep people in their place by limiting opportunities such as jobs and areas of residence (Smucker, 1989). Before the Revolution, the white elite – or grands blancs – oversaw the governance of Haiti, the importation of slaves, and the exportation of crops to Europe. Franchises, otherwise known as gens de couleur, were typically artisans or domestic servants due to laws that prohibited this group of people from working in public offices. These laws were put by the grands blancs due to the increase in population...... middle of paper...... exiled with the help of US intervention. After Duvalier's exile, Haiti formed a more stable government and elected new presidents (Abbott, 1988). In conclusion, the racial caste systems put in place in the 18th century still have effects on the world. Many political leaders in Haiti are black due to the oppression that white leaders have placed on them. While Haiti awaits reimbursement of the money from France, they should never have allowed France to make them pay for their independence. Although relations between the United States and Haiti are good now, the past has created many dubious situations that still impact current relations. Although the Duvalier dictatorship lasted only two generations, 39 years in total, François and Jean-Claude had an important impact that allowed Haiti to learn and move on to become a better and more independent nation..