How did colonialism influence the perception of zombies in Haiti?

The choice indicating that colonialism resulted in misunderstandings of Vodou practices accurately reflects the historical context of Haiti and the evolution of the zombie myth. During colonial times, Haiti was subjected to exploitation and oppression, which cast Vodou—an essential aspect of Haitian culture and spirituality—as something sinister by colonial powers. This negative framing was partly based on a lack of understanding of the religion's complexities and the socio-political meanings behind its rituals.

Colonizers often viewed Vodou through a lens of fear and superstition, which contributed to the perception of zombies as malevolent figures. Rather than appreciating Vodou as an integral part of Haitian identity and resistance, colonial narratives distorted it, leading to widespread misconceptions. This misunderstanding paved the way for the association of the zombie myth with the anxiety surrounding enslaved people and their purported ties to supernatural forces, reinforcing stereotypes that persist even in contemporary understandings of zombies outside of Haiti.

Thus, the portrayal of zombies became emblematic of larger themes such as control, fear, and the legacies of colonial oppression rather than being recognized for their cultural significance within Vodou.