The indigenous people of the West Indies were primarily the Taino, Arawak, and Carib tribes. They inhabited the islands long before European explorers arrived in the late 15th century.
The Taino were the most prominent group, known for their agriculture, fishing, and canoe-making skills. They cultivated crops such as cassava, maize, and tobacco, and lived in organized communities with social structures and governance.
The Arawak people, closely related to the Taino, also contributed to the cultures of the Caribbean. They were known for their pottery and skilled craftsmanship, and they played a significant role in trade and communication among the islands.
The Carib, on the other hand, were known as fierce warriors who sometimes engaged in conflicts with the Taino and other neighboring tribes. They had a different social structure and lifestyle compared to the Taino and Arawak.
Unfortunately, the arrival of European colonizers brought diseases and violence that devastated these indigenous populations. Over time, many of their cultures and languages disappeared due to colonization and forced assimilation.
Today, while the pure indigenous tribes no longer exist, their descendants and cultural influences can still be seen across the Caribbean islands.