Indigenous Peoples of the Caribbean
The Indigenous Peoples of the Caribbean include various groups such as the Taíno, Carib, and Arawak. These communities inhabited the islands long before European colonization, developing rich cultures, languages, and agricultural practices. They relied on fishing, farming, and gathering for sustenance, cultivating crops like cassava and sweet potatoes.
European contact in the late 15th century led to significant changes, including population decline due to disease and conflict. Today, descendants of these Indigenous groups continue to preserve their heritage and traditions, while also advocating for recognition and rights within their respective nations, contributing to the cultural diversity of the Caribbean.