Jean Price-Mars, the Haitian elite and the American occupation, 1915-1935

"Less than a full biography of Haiti's charismatic nationalist leader and most gifted 20th-century writer, this volume covers period that includes publication of Ainsi parla l'oncle (1928) up to his political defeat as president following US withdrawal. Uses Price-Mars' career as a prism for viewing US occupation's political and intellectual impact on Haiti. Focuses on his political commitment to organizing Haiti and mobilizing the press, and his international campaign during early years of US occupation (1916-18). Elaborates on the tenets of his thought: respect for the religious culture of the peasants but lucid criticism of Haitian elites' lack of civic responsibility, and a practical approach toward national unity, including denouncing the prejudices of light-skinned Haitians toward darker Haitians. Written by Price-Mars' American translator. Draws on Haitian, French, and US printed and archival materials"--Handbook of Latin American Studies, v. 58.