1816 (Speculation on Haytian Future): Historical observer Mr. Bryan Edwards speculated that “some superior spirits” might emerge among the enslaved Africans of St. Domingo to lead their people toward a civilized state.

1816 (Speculation on Haytian Future): Historical observer Mr. Bryan Edwards speculated that “some superior spirits” might emerge among the enslaved Africans of St. Domingo to lead their people toward a civilized state. He imagined these leaders might one day organize their brethren into a “well-regulated community” by applying the social order and industry they had witnessed among white populations. Sanders argues that these “fond” but originally “fallacious” ideas have actually been realized with “astonishing accuracy” by the Haytian people. This transformation is presented as a fulfillment of a vision where “sober industry” and “submission to the laws” contribute to general prosperity. The text implies that the current state of Hayti is the living embodiment of these once-theoretical social improvements.