Haiti’s Forgotten Soldiers: The Battle of Savannah and the Haitian Fight for American Freedom

Haiti's Forgotten Soldiers shines a powerful light on the overlooked men of color who served in the colonial militias of Saint-Domingue (modern-day Haiti) during the 18th century. In this gripping historical narrative, readers are introduced to Jacques Pierre, a free man of color whose service in the 1770s reflects the experiences of thousands like him—men caught between oppression and opportunity, loyalty and injustice.

Through vivid storytelling and rich historical detail, this first section—"Setting the Stage"—reveals the deep contradictions of colonial society. Saint-Domingue, France's richest colony, was a land of immense wealth built on slavery and strict racial hierarchies. While white colonists dominated politically and economically, free people of color contributed significantly to society, yet remained bound by discriminatory laws.

Despite systemic limitations, many of these men pursued honor and advancement through military service. Passed from father to son, a proud martial tradition prepared them for roles in global conflicts—foreshadowing their eventual impact on revolutionary movements in both America and Haiti.

This powerful beginning sets the stage for a larger story of identity, resistance, and the fight for freedom. Haiti's Forgotten Soldiers is a vital retelling of history—one that centers the voices and sacrifices of those too often erased.