Dessalines, born as Jean-Jacques Dessalines, was a Haitian revolutionary leader and the first ruler of an independent Haiti. Born into slavery, Dessalines fought against French colonial forces during the Haitian Revolution (1791-1804). He played a pivotal role in gaining independence from France, which was formally achieved on January 1st, 1804, making Haiti the first black republic and the second independent nation in Latin America. Dessalines served as Governor-General of Saint-Domingue until 1804, and thereafter as Emperor of Haiti until his assassination in 1806. His actions and leadership continue to be remembered in Haitian history and culture.
"Five babies named Dessalines were born in 2022."