Jean-Jacques Dessalines (Haitian Creole: Janjak Desalin) (20 September 1758 – 17 October 1806) is a leader of the Haitian Revolution and the first ruler of an independent Haiti under the 1801 constitution.

He is autocratic in his rule and crowns himself Emperor of Haïti in 1805.

Beginning as Governor-General, Dessalines later names himself Emperor Jacques I of Haiti (1804–1806).

He is remembered as one of the founding fathers of Haiti.

Dessalines serves as an officer in the French army when the colony is trying to withstand Spanish and British incursions.

Later he rises to become a commander in the revolt against France.

As Toussaint L'Ouverture's principal lieutenant, he leads many successful engagements, such as the Battle of Crête-à-Pierrot.

After the betrayal and capture of Toussaint Louverture in 1802, Dessalines becomes the leader of the revolution.

He defeatsFrench troops sent by Napoleon at the Battle of Vertières in 1803.

Declaring Haiti an independent nation in 1804, Dessalines is chosen by a council of generals (blacks and mulattos) to assume the office of Governor-General.

In September 1804, he proclaims himself Emperor and ruled in that capacity until being assassinated in 1806.