Politics and Voodoo During the Duvalier Era

Abstract

One of the most intriguing aspects of Haitian governmental politics during the Duvalier era was its pervasive ramifications and far-reaching influence on the Voodoo belief system and its co-optation of local Voodoo leaders (Manigat 1964). It is not possible to fully understand the functioning of local Haitian politics over the past two decades without paying attention to the pivotal role played by some Tontons Macoutes (militiamen), who were also influential Voodoo priests in their communities (Diederich and Burt 1969; Laguerre 1982a). During the administrations of François ‘Papa Doc’ [1957–71] and Jean-Claude ‘Baby Doc’ [1971–86] Duvalier, Voodoo became so central in the organisation of the Haitian political system that its political content deserves further analysis.¹