Indigenous Peoples of the Caribbean

Indigenous peoples of the Caribbean refer to the original inhabitants of the islands before European colonization. Key groups include the Taíno, Arawak, and Carib peoples. They developed rich cultures, languages, and societies adapted to their environments. With the arrival of Europeans in the 15th century, many Indigenous communities faced significant challenges, including disease, displacement, and decline due to colonization. Today, their descendants work to preserve their cultural heritage and identity, advocating for rights and recognition in contemporary society. Understanding their history is essential to appreciating the Caribbean's diverse cultural landscape.