Papa Doc, Baby Doc: Haiti and the Duvaliers
James FergusonAims to explain the reality of Haiti under the Duvaliers and
the causes of the regime's violent collapse. Tracing major patterns and forces
within the country's often turbulent history, the text examines the nature of
Duvalierism, its historic roots and the conflicts which toppled it. It also
analyses subsequent events in "liberated Haiti" and assesses future
prospects for this unsettled country. Using eyewitness reports and first-hand
recollections, the author has reconstructed the events surrounding Baby Doc's
last weeks in power. He discusses the role of the Catholic Church and the US
Government in his demise, and examines the nature of the spontaneous revolt
which lacked orthodox political leadership. A new chapter brings the story
further up to date with coverage of the chaotic, disrupted elections in
February 1988.
The author reported on events in Haiti for "The
Independent".