Alexandre Pétion was a prominent Haitian leader and politician born on April 2, 1770. He played a significant role in the Haitian Revolution, which led to Haiti's independence from France in 1804. Pétion became the first president of the southern part of Haiti after the country was divided into two regions in 1806. Pétion's presidency lasted until his death in 1818. He is known for promoting education and supporting the establishment of a republic based on democratic principles. His leadership helped shape the early political landscape of Haiti and influenced future leaders, including Jean-Pierre Boyer, who succeeded him.