The Big Truck That Went By: How the World Came to Save Haiti and Left Behind a Disaster

Katz acknowledges that political corruption in Haiti is real, but he also suggests that foreign interference may be partly to blame. In what ways do outside interventions contribute to the weakness of the Haitian government? How does that weakness leave the door open for corruption?

Describe the concept of paternalism. How has it informed foreign governments' relationship with Haiti, and how has it hobbled the country's attempts at self-sufficiency?

How is the news media complicit in reinforcing preconceived notions about Haiti and the Haitian people?

Katz describes Bill Clinton's foreign policy toward Haiti as well-intentioned but ultimately destructive. Discuss one Clinton policy position that had a negative impact on Haiti socially, economically, or politically.

Katz is critical of the United Nations' response to the earthquake. How did the U.N.'s actions make the situation worse, and how could they have done a better job?

The sociocultural concepts of blan and nèg  refer to more than skin color, although that is certainly part of it. How do these ideas inform how Haitians see foreigners and each other?

What were the effects of a primarily military response to the disaster? In what ways does this kind of presence exacerbate the problem?

Describe the social and political environment that paved the way for the election of kompa artist and entertainer Michel Martelly. Are there parallels with conditions in the United States that elected Donald Trump, a man with no political experience?