Issue and Opponent: President Magloire was elected in 1950 with 99% of the vote. He initially implemented a series of reforms and programs that benefitted the socioeconomic conditions in Haiti. Although President Magloire promoted economic growth in Haiti, he restricted Haitian liberties, jailed dissidents, and actively attacked union owners. Economic conditions worsened throughout his presidency. Tensions rose in December 1956 after the people widely misread that Magloire’s presidency ended on May 15, 1956. This led to the emergence of underground radical groups, protests, and anti-regime pamphlets.
Dilemma Action: On December 10th, labor groups and businesses organized a massive strike that put the country at a standstill. Bus drivers refused to transport food to the capital, lawyers refused to accept cases, students did not attend classes, shopkeepers refused to open their stores, and government workers left work early.
Outcomes: Magloire paid personal visits to the leaders of businesses to force them to sign an agreement to end the strike. Despite this agreement, shops remained closed as a symbol of defiance, which resulted in Magloire resigning and consigning to defeat on December 12th.