AMIGOS in the Dominican Republic

History of AMIGOS in the Dominican Republic

AMIGOS has worked in the Dominican Republic since 1977. We began our work in and around the capital, Santo Domingo, conducting human immunization programs with the Dominican Ministry of Health. In 1983, AMIGOS re-channeled its energy towards community sanitation and began to collaborate with the Oficina de Desarrollo Comunitario (ODC) in Dajabón. AMIGOS focused on latrine, stove, and home improvement projects with the ODC. In the late eighties a lack of ODC resources led AMIGOS to seek out a new partner agency, FUDECO.

From 1993-1999, AMIGOS worked with FUDECO in Las Matas de Farfan before returning to Dajabón in 1999. Between 2000 and 2002 AMIGOS started a second Dominican Project in Barahona and Neiba, partnered with Vision Mundial (World Vision), which focused on community initiatives and youth leadership.

In 2003, AMIGOS opened a six-week project in San Juan/Azua working with Plan International. The project was a huge success and an excellent relationship with Plan D.R. was established. AMIGOS partnered with Plan International from 2003 – 2019. During this time, AMIGOS and Plan collaborated to open AMIGOS programs to youth from local communities.

COUNTRY OVERVIEW  

PRE-COLONIAL, COLONIAL & POST-COLONIAL HISTORY

The Dominican Republic's history is a rich tapestry of indigenous heritage, European colonization, and the pursuit of sovereignty.

Pre-Colonial Era

Before European contact, the island of Hispaniola was inhabited by the Taíno people, an Arawakan-speaking group who migrated from South America. They established a society based on agriculture, fishing, and hunting, dividing the island into several chiefdoms. The Taíno referred to the island as Quisqueya, meaning "mother of all lands."

Colonial Period

Christopher Columbus arrived on the island on December 5, 1492, during his first voyage to the Americas, claiming it for Spain and naming it La Española, later Latinized to Hispaniola. In 1496, his brother, Bartholomew Columbus, founded Santo Domingo, the first permanent European settlement in the Americas. The Spanish colonization led to the rapid decline of the Taíno population due to diseases, enslavement, and warfare. To supplement the dwindling labor force, African slaves were imported beginning in 1501. Over time, a mixed-race population emerged, blending European, African, and indigenous Taíno heritage.

In 1697, the Treaty of Ryswick resulted in Spain ceding the western third of Hispaniola to France, which became Haiti. The remaining Spanish colony, known as Santo Domingo, experienced economic decline and depopulation, leading to a period referred to as "España Boba" (Foolish Spain) from 1809 to 1821.

Post-Colonial Era

In 1821, Spanish colonial rule ended when the colony declared independence, forming the Republic of Spanish Haiti. However, this independence was short-lived, as Haitian forces unified the island under Haitian control from 1822 to 1844. Dissatisfaction with Haitian rule led to the Dominican War of Independence, culminating in the establishment of the Dominican Republic on February 27, 1844.

The subsequent decades were marked by political instability, economic challenges, and multiple changes in leadership. In 1861, the Dominican Republic briefly returned to Spanish colonial status, but the Dominican Restoration War (1863–1865) restored its independence. The early 20th century saw further turmoil, including a U.S. military occupation from 1916 to 1924. The rise of Rafael Trujillo in 1930 ushered in a dictatorial regime that lasted until his assassination in 1961. Following Trujillo's death, the country gradually transitioned toward representative democracy, despite periods of political upheaval, including the Dominican Civil War in 1965 and a subsequent U.S. intervention.

Today, the Dominican Republic is a sovereign nation with a diverse cultural heritage reflecting its complex history.

Sources:

Introduction - Dominican Republic: Local History & Genealogy Resource Guide - Research Guides at Library of Congress

History of the Dominican Republic | Government, Facts, President, & Flag | Britannica

GOVERNMENT  

The Dominican Republic operates as a representative democracy, with its national powers divided among three independent branches: executive, legislative, and judicial.

Executive Branch

The President serves as both the head of state and head of government, responsible for executing laws passed by Congress, appointing the cabinet, and acting as the commander-in-chief of the armed forces. Presidential elections are conducted through an absolute majority vote using a two-round system, with the President eligible for two consecutive four-year terms.

Legislative Branch

The legislative power is vested in the bicameral National Congress, comprising:

• Senate (Senado): Consists of 32 members, each representing a province or the National District, elected by direct vote.
• Chamber of Deputies (Cámara de Diputados): Composed of 190 members, each representing a district, serving four-year terms.

Judicial Branch

The judiciary is independent and is responsible for interpreting laws and administering justice. The Supreme Court is the highest judicial authority, overseeing the lower courts and ensuring the constitutionality of laws and government actions.

Administrative Divisions

Politically, the Dominican Republic is divided into 29 provinces and a National District. Provinces are further subdivided into municipalities, totaling 117.

Recent Developments

In August 2024, President Luis Abinader began his second four-year term, committing to economic growth and social reforms. Re-elected with 58% of the vote, he aims to double the nation's GDP by 2036 through private investment and enhanced public spending transparency. His administration plans to introduce reforms to improve labor rights, social protections, and maintain electoral independence, while ensuring future presidents adhere to the constitutional two-term limit.

Sources:

Dominican Republic (05/06)

Dominican Republic: Government >> globalEDGE: Your source for Global Business Knowledge

Dominican Republic - The World Factbook

Government - Embassy of the Dominican Republic

Dominican Republic - Political and electoral system | Gender Equality Observatory

https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/dominican-republics-abinader-names-cabinet-posts-leaders-gather-inauguration-2024-08-16

ECONOMY  

The Dominican Republic has experienced significant economic growth over the past two decades, with its economy expanding at a rate three times the regional average. This growth has lifted approximately 2.8 million people out of poverty, resulting in a middle class that now surpasses the poor population. Improvements have also been noted in access to basic services, housing, and education.

Key Economic Sectors

• Tourism: A cornerstone of the economy, tourism has been pivotal in the country's post-pandemic recovery. In 2021, about 38% of the economic rebound was attributed to this sector.
• Manufacturing and Free Trade Zones (FTZs): The Dominican Republic has leveraged FTZs to boost manufacturing, particularly in textiles and electronics, benefiting from favorable trade agreements like the Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR).
• Mining: The country possesses valuable mineral resources, including gold and ferronickel, contributing to export revenues.
• Agriculture: Traditional exports such as sugar, coffee, cocoa, and tobacco remain integral to the economy.

Economic Indicators

• Gross Domestic Product (GDP): In 2022, the GDP reached $108.7 billion, marking a 5.1% growth from the previous year. This growth was driven by sectors like construction (15.8%), commerce (11.2%), and manufacturing (11%).
• Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): The nation has attracted substantial FDI, particularly in telecommunications, real estate, mining, and finance, due to investor-friendly policies and strategic trade agreements.

Challenges

Despite its economic achievements, the Dominican Republic faces challenges such as governance transparency, vulnerability to climate events, and social inequalities. Addressing these issues is crucial for sustainable development.

Sources:

Dominican Republic Overview: Development news, research, data | World Bank

Tourism Doing Business Investing in Dominican Republic

Dominican Republic - Market Overview

Economy of the Dominican Republic - Wikipedia

Dominican Republic economic report 2023

The Dominican Republic

GEOGRAPHY

The Dominican Republic, located in the Caribbean, occupies the eastern two-thirds of the island of Hispaniola, sharing its western border with Haiti. The country is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the north and the Caribbean Sea to the south. Its maximum length from east to west is approximately 390 kilometers (240 miles), and its maximum width from north to south is about 265 kilometers (165 miles).

Topography

The Dominican Republic boasts a diverse topography, featuring several major mountain ranges and fertile valleys that predominantly extend from northwest to southeast. Notably, it includes both the highest and lowest elevations in the West Indies.

Climate

The country's climate is predominantly tropical maritime, characterized by variations due to its mountainous terrain. The annual mean temperature is around 25°C (77°F), with regional variations ranging from 18°C (64°F) in central mountainous areas to 27°C (81°F) in arid regions. The rainy season varies across regions: the northern coast experiences it from November to January, while the rest of the country sees rainfall from May to November. Annual precipitation averages 1,346 millimeters, with the northeastern mountains receiving up to 2,500 millimeters, and the southwestern valleys receiving as little as 500 millimeters due to the rain shadow effect.

Natural Features

The Dominican Republic's geographical diversity includes extensive white sandy beaches, fertile valleys with lush vegetation, desert areas with dune formations, and impressive mountain chains. This variety contributes to a rich mixture of natural environments within the country.

This diverse geography not only shapes the nation's climate and natural beauty but also influences its cultural and economic activities, making the Dominican Republic a unique and multifaceted country in the Caribbean.

Sources:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geography_of_the_Dominican_Republic

https://www.britannica.com/place/Dominican-Republic

FOOD

Dominican cuisine is a rich tapestry woven from Spanish, Indigenous Taíno, and African influences, reflecting the country's diverse cultural heritage.

Staple Dishes

• La Bandera Dominicana (The Dominican Flag): Considered the national dish, it consists of white rice, stewed red beans, and meat (commonly chicken or beef), often accompanied by tostones (fried plantain slices), green salad, or avocado. The dish's name is inspired by the colors of the Dominican flag.
• Sancocho: A hearty stew made with a variety of meats and root vegetables, often referred to as "7-Meat Stew" due to its traditional preparation with seven different types of meat.
• Mangú: A breakfast staple consisting of mashed green plantains, typically served with "Los Tres Golpes" (the three hits): fried cheese, salami, and eggs.

Street Food and Snacks

• Chimichurri (Chimi): A popular street food, the Dominican version of a burger, featuring a seasoned meat patty topped with cabbage, tomatoes, and a tangy sauce, all nestled in a bread roll.
• Empanadas: Fried or baked pastries filled with meats, cheese, or vegetables, commonly enjoyed as a snack or light meal.

Desserts

• Habichuelas con Dulce: A unique sweet dish made from red beans, coconut milk, and spices, traditionally prepared during the Lenten season.
• Dulce de Leche: A creamy caramel-like confection made by slowly heating sweetened milk, often used as a filling or topping for various desserts.

Beverages

• Morir Soñando: A refreshing drink made by mixing orange juice with milk and sugar, resulting in a creamy, citrusy beverage.

The Dominican Republic's culinary landscape offers a flavorful journey that reflects its rich history and cultural diversity.

Sources:

Customs and Cuisine of the Dominican Republic - Together Women Rise

The Dominican Republic’s most typical dishes

https://www.dominicancooking.com/dominican-food-guide

Typical Dominican food: The complete guide | Iberostar ©

TRADITIONS  

The Dominican Republic's traditions are a vibrant blend of its Taíno, African, and Spanish heritage, manifesting in various aspects of daily life, celebrations, and social customs.

Festivals and Celebrations

• Carnival (Carnaval Dominicano): Celebrated throughout February, Carnival is one of the most significant and colorful events in the Dominican Republic. Each region showcases unique costumes and masks, with the "Diablo Cojuelo" (Limping Devil) being a prominent character. The festivities include parades, music, dancing, and a display of cultural heritage.
• Holy Week (Semana Santa): During Easter, Dominicans observe Semana Santa with a mix of religious devotion and leisure. While some attend church services on Good Friday and Holy Saturday, others take the opportunity to visit beaches and enjoy time with family. A traditional treat during this time is "habichuelas con dulce," a sweet bean dessert.

Social Customs

• Greetings: A handshake accompanied by direct eye contact and a warm smile is a common greeting among Dominicans. In more familiar settings, a kiss on the cheek or a hug may be exchanged.
• Gift-Giving: When invited to a Dominican's home, it is customary to bring a gift, such as chocolates or pastries, as a token of appreciation.

Wedding Traditions

• Padrinos and Madrinas: In Dominican weddings, the inclusion of godparents (padrinos and madrinas) is a longstanding tradition. Typically, the groom's mother and the bride's father serve in these roles, also acting as witnesses to the marriage.
• Arras (Coins): A young boy often carries "arras," or coins, on a tray to the priest, who then passes them to the groom and subsequently to the bride, symbolizing prosperity and shared wealth.

Folklore and Legends

Dominican folklore is rich with mythical figures and tales, such as:

• Ciguapa: A mythical creature resembling a woman with backward-facing feet, known to lure men into the forests.
• El Cuco: A boogeyman figure used to encourage children to behave.

These legends are integral to the country's oral traditions and cultural identity.

The Dominican Republic's traditions reflect its diverse cultural roots and are celebrated with enthusiasm, reinforcing social bonds and national identity.

Sources:

https://www.moon.com/travel/arts-culture/carnaval-dominicano-masks-traditions-and-culture/

https://www.godominicanrepublic.com/about-us/

13 Dominican Republic 2022.pdf

Customs and Cuisine of the Dominican Republic - Together Women Rise

https://theculturetrip.com/latin-america/articles/10-traditions-only-dominican-can-understand

BASEBALL

Baseball holds a central place in the Dominican Republic's culture, deeply influencing its social fabric and international identity.

Introduction of Baseball

Baseball was introduced to the Dominican Republic in the late 19th century by Cuban immigrants and American marines. The first recorded game took place on September 25, 1886, in San Pedro de Macorís between two Cuban teams, Santiago de Cuba and Angelina.

Development and Professionalization

In 1891, the Alomá brothers, Ignacio and Ubaldo, left Cuba to live in the Dominican Republic. They organized the first teams to play the game regularly in the country.

By 1937, baseball had become the national pastime, and the Dominican Republic had established a professional league. The Dominican Republic Professional Baseball League (LIDOM) was founded in 1955, marking the beginning of organized professional baseball in the country.

Major League Baseball (MLB) Impact

The Dominican Republic has produced numerous MLB players who have achieved significant success. The first Dominican-born MLB player was Ozzie Virgil, who debuted in 1956. Since then, the country has produced stars like Juan Marichal, Pedro Martínez, and David Ortiz, among many others. These players have not only excelled on the field but have also become cultural icons, inspiring generations of Dominicans.

National Team Achievements

The Dominican Republic's national baseball team has achieved remarkable success on the international stage. They won the Baseball World Cup in 1948 and the World Baseball Classic in 2013, becoming the first team to win both world competitions.

Cultural Significance

Baseball is more than just a sport in the Dominican Republic; it is a vital part of the nation's identity. The sport fosters community pride and unity, with local games and tournaments being common in neighborhoods. The passion for baseball is evident in the widespread participation of youth in the sport, with many aspiring to follow in the footsteps of their MLB heroes.

In summary, baseball's history in the Dominican Republic is rich and multifaceted, reflecting the country's cultural diversity and its profound connection to the sport.

Sources:

https://www.mlb.com/news/featured/the-history-of-baseball-in-the-dominican-republic

https://sabr.org/research/article/early-history-of-baseball-in-the-dominican-republic/

Baseball - GoDominicanRepublic.com

COUNTRY-SPECIFIC SLANG  

Every country has its own set of idioms, mannerisms, and phrases. There are even language differences from one community to the next. No need to worry though; your Spanish will serve you very well this summer and will allow you to communicate with community members. Below is a list of regional vocabulary that you should learn.

These terms are integral to daily conversations in the Dominican Republic, adding flavor and local color to the language.

Sources:

25 Dominican Slang Terms You Gotta Know

https://baselang.com/blog/vocabulary/29-dominican-republic-slang-words-to-know-before-visiting-the-caribbean/

RESOURCES FOR FURTHER INFORMATION 

Here are some great resources for further information on the Dominican Republic:

Books:

1. "The Dominican Republic: A National History" by Frank Moya Pons
• A comprehensive book on the history of the Dominican Republic, from pre-colonial times to the present.
2. "The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao" by Junot Díaz
• This novel offers a fictional yet insightful look into Dominican history and culture, particularly from the perspective of a Dominican-American family.
3. "Dominican Republic: A Country Study" by the Federal Research Division of the Library of Congress
• A thorough exploration of the history, culture, economy, and government of the Dominican Republic.

Websites:

1. GoDominicanRepublic.com
• Official tourism website of the Dominican Republic with information on culture, attractions, and things to do.
2. Dominican Republic National Baseball Team
• Wikipedia page detailing the history of the Dominican Republic's national baseball team and its accomplishments.
3. Dominican Cooking
• A resource with traditional Dominican recipes and a guide to Dominican cuisine.
4. Lingopie
• A helpful resource for learning Dominican slang and understanding the local language.
5. Together Women Rise
• Information on Dominican culture, cuisine, and social customs.

Videos:

1. "The Dominican Republic: A Land of Baseball" (YouTube)
• A documentary-style video that covers baseball’s cultural importance in the Dominican Republic.
2. "Cultural Traditions in the Dominican Republic" (YouTube)
• A video that highlights Dominican cultural traditions such as Carnival, music, and family gatherings.

Research Articles:

1. "Early History of Baseball in the Dominican Republic" (Society for American Baseball Research - SABR)
• An article examining the history of baseball in the Dominican Republic and its development into a national pastime.
2. "Dominican Folklore and Legends" (Wikipedia)
• A detailed overview of the folk tales and legendary figures in Dominican culture.