African slaves begin to arrive in increasing numbers.
1600s Rise of British, French, and Dutch activity in Caribbean. The Spaniards cede the western third of Hispaniola to the French crown at the Treaty of Ryswick. Its capital, Cap Fran ais, is known as the Paris of the New World. The first major black rebellion takes place, initiated by Boukman, a voodoo houngan. He restored order, ended the massacres, and restored some of Saint Domingue's former prosperity.