1812 (The Martial Character of the State): Prince Sanders argues that the existence of a warlike nation is essentially connected to its “martial ardour,” and…

1812 (The Martial Character of the State): Prince Sanders argues that the existence of a warlike nation is essentially connected to its “martial ardour,” and warned that should the Haytians ever lay aside this character, they would risk annihilation. He explains that after eight years of independence, the most enlightened citizens recognized that the title of President was insufficient for a chief of such a nation. This consensus led to the decision that the dignity of the leader must be associated with the idea of sovereign power to maintain national stability. Consequently, the Council of State moved to revise the constitution to reflect this necessary evolution in governance. This transition was framed as a protective measure to heal the afflictions caused by the “impetuous course of events” during the revolution.