The Taino were an indigenous people of the Caribbean, primarily inhabiting the islands of Hispaniola, Puerto Rico, Cuba, and Jamaica. They were part of the larger Arawakan language family and were known for their agricultural practices, cultivating crops like cassava, maize, and tobacco. The Taino lived in organized communities and had a rich culture that included art, music, and religious beliefs centered around nature. When Christopher Columbus arrived in the Caribbean in 1492, he encountered the Taino, who initially welcomed the Europeans. However, the arrival of the Spanish led to significant changes, including the spread of diseases and forced labor, which drastically reduced the Taino population. Today, their legacy continues through cultural influences and genetic contributions