Revolution in Haiti created instabilities that led to large scale emigration from that country to New Orleans. Until 1800 Haiti was under French rule and operated a plantation economy with 90% of the population black African slaves. In 1794 France abolished slavery. The French planters began to flee Haiti and by 1804 the country was in revolt ( see Toussaint L'Ouverture and Jean Jacques Dessaline) Tens of thousands fled to Cuba but in 1809 that country expelled the Hatians.

Within six months in 1809 10,000 Hatians came to New Orleans roughly doubling the city's population. They were one third white (French), one third black (African) and one third Creole. They tended to settle in the Tremé area and created a distinct new subculture in New Orleans. They are credited with introducing the opera to New Orleans and preserving and extending French influence in cuisine.

Homes along Esplanade Avenue were built by these immigrants. Marie Laveau and voodoo were among the immigrants. The Zulu parade (Social Aid and Pleasure Club) stems from Treme.