Taíno people

The Taíno were indigenous people who inhabited the Caribbean islands, such as Puerto Rico, Hispaniola, and Cuba, before European contact. They were skilled farmers, fishermen, and artisans, known for their vibrant culture, ceramics, and navigation. As part of the Arawak language family, they played a significant role in the region’s history, especially during the early colonial period. The Taíno population dramatically declined due to diseases, forced labor, and colonization after Columbus arrived in 1492. Today, their descendants continue to celebrate their heritage, and Taíno influence remains evident in regional language, art, and place names.