France Militaire Series Map of Saint-Domingue

Details

Description

This map is titled "St. Domingue (Partie Française)" and is part of the France Militaire series. It focuses on the … Read more This map is titled "St. Domingue (Partie Française)" and is part of the France Militaire series. It focuses on the French portion of Saint-Domingue, which corresponds to modern-day Haiti. Features: - The map provides a detailed view of the French colonial territory in Saint-Domingue, the western part of the island of Hispaniola, known for being one of France’s most profitable colonies during the 18th century due to its sugar and coffee plantations. - Key cities and regions are marked, including Port-au-Prince, Cap Français (now Cap-Haïtien), and the Île de la Gonâve. - The geographical features are represented with great detail, including mountain ranges, rivers, and coastal regions. Important bays such as the Baie de Port-au-Prince are also labeled. - To the left, the map includes part of Cuba, highlighting how close the island is to Saint-Domingue. Historical Context: - The map likely dates to the late 18th century or early 19th century, around the time of the Haitian Revolution (1791–1804), which led to the independence of Haiti from France. - The title "France Militaire" suggests that this map may have been used for military purposes, possibly related to French colonial administration or military campaigns during the turbulent period of the Haitian Revolution. Artistic and Cartographic Details: - The map is finely engraved, with detailed line work showcasing both natural and urban features. - It was drawn by Monin and engraved by Jacqueline and Barrière, well-known cartographers and engravers of the time. The map of **Saint-Domingue (Partie Française)** from the **France Militaire** series likely dates to the **late 18th century or early 19th century**, specifically around **1790 to 1804**. This period corresponds with significant historical events, including the Haitian Revolution (1791-1804), during which Haiti (formerly the French colony of Saint-Domingue) gained its independence from France. The title "France Militaire" suggests that the map was created for military or administrative purposes, possibly in relation to French efforts to maintain control over the colony during the revolution. Given these factors, the map most likely dates between 1790 and 1800, during the last years of French control over Saint-Domingue. See less