Answer:
Due the probability of a German counterattack, the Westen Allies engaged into an initial defensive against any likely invasion by creating a system of fortresses on the frontier but also leaving gaps to be able to canalize any German attack; one of those offensives around 1914 in WWI was called <em>"The First Battle of the Marne"</em>, resulted in a victory for the Allies.
They were dangerous and unforgiving places to work. The people of that working class were known to work long hours up to 12 to 16 hour shifts. Not to mention earning low wages that barely covered the cost of living. They places were very dirty with little or no worker rights.
Jean-Jacques Dessalines proclaims the independence of Saint-Domingue
The place is renamed "Haiti" afterwards
