signed
11/03/1863
by Abraham Lincoln
11/03/1863. A very early diplomatic recognition for a minority-ruled Republic in the Western HemisphereHaiti achieved independence from French rule in 1804 after a successful slave revolt, becoming the first free black republic in the world. However, the United States, particularly the Southern states with their slave-based economy, hesitated to recognize Haiti's independence, fearing that its existence would inspire similar revolts in their own territories. The United States did have commercial agents to handle business with Haiti, but first began considering recognizing Haiti in 1861. But it did not officially recognize Haiti until July 12, 1862, with (truncated)