Jean-Claude Duvalier vs John Tyler

Duvalier initially relaxed some of his father's repressive policies. He allowed some political exiles to return, reduced the power of the Tonton Macoute militia, and permitted a slightly freer press. These reforms were limited and did not establish democracy.

Upon the death of his father Fran

Duvalier married Mich

Massive protests and international pressure forced Duvalier to flee Haiti. He went into exile in France, taking millions of dollars allegedly stolen from the state. His departure ended 29 years of Duvalier family rule and led to a transition to democracy.

After 25 years in exile, Duvalier unexpectedly returned to Haiti. He was arrested upon arrival and charged with corruption, human rights abuses, and embezzlement. However, he was never fully tried, and the case was eventually dropped due to statute of limitations issues.

Upon William Henry Harrison's death, Tyler became the first vice president to assume the presidency. He insisted on being president, not acting president, setting the precedent for presidential succession.

Tyler vetoed two bills to reestablish a national bank, breaking with the Whig Party. His actions led to his expulsion from the Whig Party and the resignation of his entire cabinet except Secretary of State Daniel Webster.

Tyler approved the treaty negotiated by Secretary of State Daniel Webster with Britain, settling the northeastern boundary of the United States (Maine-New Brunswick). The treaty averted potential conflict with Britain.

Tyler signed a joint resolution for the annexation of Texas just before leaving office. The annexation added a large slaveholding territory to the U.S., leading to the Mexican-American War.

Tyler served as a delegate to the Virginia Secession Convention and voted for secession. He was elected to the Confederate House of Representatives but died before taking his seat.