Taíno culture

The Taíno were an Indigenous people of the Caribbean, primarily inhabiting islands like Puerto Rico, Cuba, and the Dominican Republic before European contact. They had a rich culture characterized by complex social organizations, agriculture, and pottery. Taíno society was structured around chiefdoms led by caciques (chiefs) and featured communal farming, fishing, and craft-making. They practiced spiritual beliefs centered on local gods (zemis) and rituals. Their language, art, and storytelling reflected their deep connection to nature. Although largely decimated due to colonization, their legacy persists through archaeological sites, place names, and influence on Caribbean culture.