Maintenance of Taino traditions within Puerto Rican culture

Abstract

Puerto Rican people and culture are the result of the often violent contact between the colonizing forces of Spain, the African people they later enslaved and the indigenous population of the island. Over time, the blending of these three diverse peoples, each with their own unique culture and traditions, resulted in a new population currently known as Puerto Rican. Little information is available, however, regarding Taino culture and society prior to European contact, and even less is known about their ongoing contributions to Puerto Rican culture. This thesis brings together accurate information about the indigenous people of Boriquen. It attempts to correct distortions and untruths about Taino culture, providing alternative interpretations and giving recognition to the Taino legacy which remains a part of Puerto Rican culture today.