Her-Story: Marie-Claire Heureuse Félicité Bonheur Dessalines: Empress of Hayti, the Black Empire of Freedom

She was more than an Empress — she was the heart of a nation.

Born enslaved in Léogâne, Saint-Domingue, Marie-Claire Heureuse Félicité Bonheur Dessalines rose to become Haiti’s first Empress and one of the most compassionate figures in world history. While others fought with swords and guns, she healed with herbs, courage, and mercy.

From refusing concubinage and insisting on marriage in a time when enslaved women had no choice, to creating the first healing soup that would become Haiti’s beloved Soup Joumou, Marie-Claire’s life was a testament to resilience, justice, and love. She married General Jean-Jacques Dessalines, stood beside him as he declared Haiti’s independence in 1804, and helped shape the Black Empire of Freedom with wisdom and grace.

In this powerful story, readers will discover:

• How Marie-Claire used literacy, healing, and courage to defy the odds.

• Her pivotal role as a nurse, midwife, and philanthropist during the Haitian Revolution.

• The love story and marriage contract that changed the course of history.

• Her lasting influence on Haiti’s constitution, culture, and independence.

• Why her compassion, justice, and legacy still inspire Black women across the world today.

This is not just history. It is a celebration of Black womanhood, resilience, and leadership. Perfect for classrooms, families, and anyone seeking untold stories of courage, Her-Story: Philanthropist and Empress of Hayti honors the legacy of an extraordinary woman whose compassion healed a nation.