Discover the fascinating origins of the Taíno, the indigenous people who greeted Christopher Columbus in 1492. Long before European arrival, the Taíno thrived across the Caribbean islands — from Puerto Rico (Borikén) and Hispaniola to Cuba, Jamaica, and the Bahamas. Their ancestors migrated from South America, part of the Arawak-speaking groups from the Amazon and Orinoco regions, bringing advanced agriculture, seafaring skills, and a rich culture.
In this video, we explore how the Taíno language — an Arawakan tongue — evolved, its dialects (like Classic Taíno and Ciboney), and words that survive today (like “canoe”, “hammock”, “tobacco”, and “barbecue”). Learn about their migration waves, society, and why their legacy endures despite colonial impacts. Perfect for anyone interested in indigenous Caribbean history!