Financial Aid: The French government, which controlled Haiti, secretly provided financial assistance to the American colonies. This funding was crucial in helping the Americans purchase supplies, arms, and ammunition, as well as pay their troops.
Volunteer Soldiers: A number of Haitian soldiers and volunteers joined the American Continental Army and fought alongside the Americans in various battles. These soldiers were highly skilled and experienced in military tactics, and they played a significant role in the American victory.
Port Access: Haiti's ports served as important bases for American ships. The Americans used these ports to receive supplies from France and other countries, as well as to launch attacks against the British. The port of Cap-Français (present-day Cap-Haïtien) was a particularly important strategic location for the Americans.
Diplomatic Support: Haiti's diplomatic efforts also helped the American cause. The Haitian government lobbied other European powers to support the Americans and encouraged France to provide more assistance. This diplomatic pressure contributed to the French decision to enter the war on the side of the Americans in 1778.
Overall, Haiti's contributions to the American Revolutionary War were significant and played a role in securing American independence. The support provided by Haiti, despite being a French colony, demonstrated the solidarity between the Haitian people and the American colonists in their shared struggle for freedom and self-determination.