American officials say they were initially skeptical because the general had been a trusted adviser to the Duvalier family, which ruled Haiti from 1957 to 1986.

For nearly three years, he ruled Haiti with an iron fist, terrorizing anyone who would defy his military rule.

In the first century after independence, descendants of the wealthy black planter elite ruled Haiti.

The Americans were seen by many Haitians as an occupying force; the United States Marines invaded and essentially ruled Haiti from 1915 to 1934.

The revolution left in place the affranchi élite which continued to rule Haiti, while the formidable Haitian army kept them in power.

Who will rule Haiti?

These critics say the provisional Government, like the Duvaliers, who ruled Haiti for 30 years, has begun to think of itself as the embodiment of the country.

Colonel Paul was considered close to the Government council that ruled Haiti until a military-supported civilian President took office last month.

It has always been with them, particularly during the bad years of the Duvaliers, who ruled Haiti with terror for 30 years.

The Administration's apparent motive is to avoid embarrassing revelations about the involvement of American intelligence agents with the military regime that ruled Haiti.