The First and Last King of Haiti: The Rise and Fall of Henry Christophe
By Marlene L. Daut
Knopf, 2025

Henry Christophe was a source of fascination in the 19th century world, yet today he is one of the least understood leaders in the history of the Americas. Born in 1767 to an enslaved mother on Grenada, he fought in both the American and Haitian Revolutions. In the latter, Christophe eventually turned against his enslaved Haitian comrades to join the French, later returning to fight for Haiti and declare himself their king. This deeply-researched biography shows how his complicated life and legacy enduringly shaped the history of Haiti and the Americas.

About the Author
Marlene Daut is Professor of French and African Diaspora Studies at Yale University. Daut’s articles on Haitian history and culture have appeared in over a dozen magazines, newspapers, and journals including The New Yorker, The New York Times, and Essence. She lives with her family in Connecticut.

Purchase the book
Please help support local independent bookstores by purchasing this book at Browseabout Books, official bookseller of the History Book Festival. Online sources and digital versions are tempting; however, supporting local brick and mortar shops helps to preserve our vibrant main streets. Drop by Browseabout, order books online, or call the store at 302-226-2665. You also may purchase a copy at biblion in Lewes.