One third of the Caribbean island Hispaniola is known as the Republic of Haiti. Haiti formed the first successful slave revolt, and was the first independent black republic. Haiti claimed its independence on January 1, 1804. About 80% of the population lives in wretched poverty, and Haiti is known as one of the poorest countries in the world. | One third of the Caribbean island Hispaniola is known as the Republic of Haiti. Haiti formed the first successful slave revolt, and was the first independent black republic. Haiti claimed its independence on January 1, 1804. About 80% of the population lives in wretched poverty, and Haiti is known as one of the poorest countries in the world. |